A Story of Resilience and Service
The Personal Perseverance Award was presented to Shadim Hussain, founder and CEO of My Foster Family. His career illustrates a life devoted to inclusion and equality, shaped by personal resilience and a determination to create opportunities for others.
Championing Fostering and Adoption
Through My Foster Family, the Muslim Foster Network, and My Adoption Family, Shadim has pioneered efforts to support ethnic minority families navigating the fostering and adoption system. His work has expanded representation and built bridges between families and children in need of care.
Overcoming Personal Adversity
In June 2022, Shadim suffered a severe stroke that left him hospitalised for eight weeks and struggling with aphasia. With determination and support, he rebuilt his communication and confidence, later co-founding the Bradford Aphasia Café as a space of solidarity and recovery for others.
Recognition of Dedication
Awarded an MBE in January 2023 for services to equality and foster care, Shadim has continued to lead and to inspire – returning to hospitals to mentor survivors and advocate for stroke recovery alongside his ongoing charity leadership.
The Personal Perseverance Award honours his example: that leadership is not only measured by professional achievements, but by the courage to continue serving others in the face of life’s greatest challenges. Nominate a inspiring charity leaders for a Muslim Impact Award here.
