In a prestigious ceremony held on December 6, 2024, at the iconic House of Commons, the World Tamil Organisation (WTO-UK) honoured former Member of Parliament Virendra Sharma with a Lifetime Achievement Award. This accolade celebrated his dedication to the Southall community and his impactful contributions to the wider Asian diaspora in the United Kingdom.
The award was presented by Dr. Simon Opher, MP for Stroud, a staunch advocate for the Asian community and a proponent of strengthening business ties between India and the UK. The event was further elevated by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Lord Dholakia and Lady Dholakia.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Sharma expressed his gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a “thrilling honour.” He commended the WTO for its exemplary work in empowering the Tamil community and vowed to continue supporting Asian communities within his capacity.
Mr. Sharma stepped down from his position as MP in July this year, ahead of the parliamentary elections in the UK.
The event saw the attendance of Tamil business leaders who have excelled in their respective sectors while championing social responsibility and philanthropic initiatives. Several of these leaders were also recognised during the ceremony for their outstanding contributions.
The WTO-UK is a registered organisation dedicated to the welfare of the Tamil community in the United Kingdom. Representing the Indo-UK Tamil diaspora, the organisation has established a robust international network of policymakers and entrepreneurs. It provides invaluable advice and practical support across sectors in India and the UK, fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation.
Virendra Sharma is a distinguished British-Indian Labour Party politician who served as the MP for Ealing Southall from 2007 to 2024. Fondly known as “Sharmaji,” he was born in India and is fluent in Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu. He is a proud family man, with a son, a daughter, and three grandchildren.
Sharma arrived in the UK in 1968, beginning his career as a bus conductor before transitioning to work as a services manager for individuals with learning disabilities. His political journey started with 25 years as a councillor in Ealing, including a term as Mayor, where he gained profound insights into local governance.
As an MP, Sharma championed causes such as immigrant rights, workers’ protections, and equality legislation. His advocacy played a key role in advancing landmark policies like the Race Relations Act and the Sex Discrimination Act. He tirelessly promoted community cohesion, collaborating with South Asian organisations representing Indian, Sri Lankan, and Nepalese communities.
In Parliament, he chaired multiple All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs), including the Indo-British APPG, Nepal APPG, Honour-Based Abuse APPG, and Global Tuberculosis APPG. He also served as Vice-Chair for APPGs focused on Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the British Council (South Asia), and Extreme Poverty.
As a Patron of the British South Indian Council of Commerce (BSICC), Sharma emphasised collective progress and community engagement throughout his career. Even after stepping down from Parliament, he continues mentoring young politicians and actively participates in social and political events.
For his colleagues and supporters, Virendra Sharma remains a symbol of integrity, a mentor, and a devoted champion of equality and unity.
The event was meticulously organised by the WTO team, led by Jacob Ravibalan, ensuring a memorable celebration of community achievements and contributions.
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