Writer and actress Ambreen Razia picked-up the very first AMA Best Newcomer accolade.
Ambreen has already garnered much acclaim for her one-woman show The Diary of a Hounslow Girl.
The tragi-comic monologue follows a year in the life of 16-year-old Shahida, as she returns to Hounslow after her sister’s wedding in Pakistan and starts a relationship that leads to her becoming pregnant.
She said, “It’s moments like this which make me so happy that I decided to pursue my dream as an Actress and not a full time Hairdresser.
“Although the majority of recognition I have received has been for my one woman show, my journey thus far has been far from that, I have a number of incredible people to thank for my success.”
She was introduced on stage by Comedian and actor Tez Ilyas.
Speaking on the awards themselves she said, “Great atmosphere a great buzz – some fantastic nominees and candidates.
“I want to continue to create really inspiring work and whatever recognition I get along the way that’s just a bonus really.”
Ambreen recently appeared in the BBC3 drama Murdered By My Father produced by BBC Studios, which is based on a real-life honour killing.
Having studied at the London College of Music, Ambreen focused on writing after becoming frustrated at the lack of roles for British Asian actors.
When writing The Diary of a Hounslow Girl, Ambreen aimed to challenge and breakdown negative stereotypes, particularly those held toward British Asian girls who don the hijab, by highlighting trial and tribulations faced by all 16-year-olds, irrespective of background.
Ambreen stars in a brand new comedy sketch with Mandeep Dhillon, The Raz and Deep Show which explores the clash between traditional Asian culture and modern British life.
She has also featured in Channel 4’s Random Acts and BBC 4’s No Guts, No Heart, No Glory.
Ambreen is currently writing her next play, ‘POT.’
The University of Salford are premier sponsors to the 2016 events and partners include ITV, MediaCom, Press Association Training and the Manchester Evening News.
The official charity partners for 2016 are The Asian Circle and Oxfam.
The Asian Media Awards 2016 are supported by Hilton Manchester Deansgate, Manchester Metropolitan University, Routes into Languages, AMT Lawyers, Espoke Living, Supreme Dream Events, Cleartwo & Payal.
For further information please e-mail umbreen@asianmediaawards.com.
