Hari Shukla

For over 50 years Dr Hari Shukla has fought for racial and religious harmony in Newcastle and beyond. The former director of the Tyne and Wear Racial Equality Council is described as a community leader and equality champion on the Local Hero plaque that is dedicated to him on the Quayside. Dr Hari Shukla has been honoured with a CBE, MBE and an OBE over the years for his work.

His leadership and dedication to the wellbeing of the people of Newcastle was further showcased when he became one of the first people in the UK to receive a Covid-19 vaccination.

The Reverend Professor Nicholas Sakovsky

Dr. Sagovsky served as a Commissioner on the Independent Asylum Commission, which scrutinized the UK's asylum system and issued a 2008 report with more than 180 suggestions for reform. This contributed significantly to the substantial reduction in the detention of children for immigration reasons.

Currently, he is focused on improving university access for forced migrants who are ineligible for student finance. He is a co-founder and active member of the Article 26 Project, which strives to facilitate entry into Higher Education for individuals who have escaped persecution and are seeking asylum in the UK.