A community leader has received a commendation from the Police and Crime Commissioner for his work to encourage people to live healthier and more active lives.
Scunthorpe Islamic Centre Imam Sayful Ahmen played a key role in the formation of the Your Wellbeing service which aims to advance the health and wellbeing of minority communities throughout North Lincolnshire.
Your Wellbeing seeks to introduce sporting and wellbeing activities to those who may not otherwise engage in such sessions, providing vital information and experience to help with health and fitness.
Sayful was surprised with his commendation by Commissioner Jonathan Evison prior to prayers at Scunthorpe Islamic Centre.
He said: “I had no idea. It was a complete shock. It’s amazing to receive this and it’s nice to know there is acknowledgement of what we’re trying to do.
“We realised there were a lot of people from our communities that weren’t active enough and not being encouraged to be active. Our tagline is ‘looking after you’ and we create events and workshops and try to think about people’s well-being and how we can support that.
“It’s been amazing. We have a number of activities each week that people really enjoy attending. Having started with just two of us, I have a wonderful team now and the project has just grown and grown.”
Sayful received multiple nominations for the commendation for his work, with submissions including: “He has made a positive impact across North Lincolnshire since 2021 by working tirelessly to help people overcome barriers such as poor health, lack of confidence and social isolation.
“His work has benefitted more than 300 individuals in the area and continues to do so.”
He was also praised for organising and leading a multi-faith community meeting in Scunthorpe in the wake of the Southport attack in 2024.
To watch a video of Sayful’s commendation, click play below.
To see more from the Commissioner's commendation scheme, click HERE.
