University News Last updated 31 December 2025
Two Birmingham City University (BCU) alumni have been praised for their life-changing work championing young people and inclusion after being recognised in The King’s New Year Honours.
Safaraz Ali, CEO of Pathway Group, and Tom Clarke-Forrest, Founder and CEO of Sport 4 Life UK, were both awarded MBEs.
“We are immensely proud of both Safaraz and Tom,” said Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor of BCU.
“Their journeys are powerful examples of what can be achieved when talent is matched with purpose, resilience and a deep commitment to service.
“Through their leadership, they have changed lives, opened doors for young people, and championed inclusion in ways that reach far beyond their respective sectors.
“They exemplify the very best of our alumni community and are inspiring ambassadors for Birmingham City University. We congratulate them both on this richly deserved recognition.”
Safaraz (pictured right), who graduated from BCU in 1996 with a degree in Banking and Financial Services, was awarded an MBE for his services to Diversity and Inclusion in Business.
“I’m incredibly proud - and still pinching myself a little,” said Sarfaraz, who is widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading ecosystem builders in skills, social mobility, and inclusive enterprise.
“Receiving an MBE is a real honour and a moment to pause and reflect. It’s especially emotional and meaningful because my parents are no longer around to see it, but I know how proud they would have been.
“I’ll be sharing some special moments with my siblings, my wider family, and the colleagues I’ve had the privilege to work alongside over many years.”
A serial social entrepreneur, author, podcast host, mentor and thought leader with significant public and institutional roles, Safaraz is founder and leader of influential ventures including Pathway Group, the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards, Pathway2Grow, and Thinkfest.
He is also a hugely influential Community Ambassador for BCU as well as a trusted figure in government advocacy and impact investing across the UK and Pakistan.
“I’ve never done this work with recognition in mind,” added Safaraz. “I’ve simply tried to stay focused on doing the right thing and creating opportunities where they don’t always exist.
“What this recognition really does is strengthen my sense of responsibility - it reinforces why the work around skills, social mobility, and inclusive leadership matters, and why it’s important to keep pushing for better outcomes.
“This honour wouldn’t have been possible without the support of so many people around me. I’m deeply grateful to my team at Pathway Group and the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards, to our patrons and sponsors, and to the communities we work with every day.
“I’m also proud of my roots in Birmingham - and of the role Birmingham City University has played in shaping my journey.”
Awarded an MBE for Services to Young People, Tom has been the driving force behind Sport 4 Life UK, an organisation set up in 2006 to empower young people to reach their potential by providing the skills, qualifications and support needed to find work and shape successful futures.
He was also chosen as a baton bearer for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
“Recognition and awards were never the purpose behind Sport 4 Life UK, and there’s certainly never been any expectation, but it’s incredibly humbling when they come our way,” said Tom (pictured left), who completed an Executive MBA at BCU in 2022.
“Almost 20 years ago, Sport 4 Life started with a simple idea: an unwavering belief in the power of sport, a love for the West Midlands, and a passion for supporting young people.
“From that spark, we’ve been on an incredible journey culminating in over 25,000 young people meaningfully supported and £14 million invested into the communities we serve.
“I couldn’t have done this alone. This award is as much for the incredible colleagues - past and present - who have shared our vision and given so much skill, energy and passion to the cause.”
Both Safaraz and Tom continue to work closely and collaboratively with BCU staff and students, supporting the delivery of Strategy 2030 and helping to shape opportunities that enable future generations to thrive.