Pakistani entrepreneur awarded prestigious Freedom of the City of London

LONDON: A renowned British-Pakistani entrepreneur Suleman Raza MBE, restaurateur, and philanthropist, has been awarded the prestigious Freedom of the City of London.

This honour, one of the highest accolades bestowed by the City of London, recognizes Raza’s exceptional contributions to the community and his achievements in business and philanthropy.

Expressing his delight at receiving the Freedom of the City of London, Suleman Raza told Geo and The News: “When I first arrived in London at 18, I was welcomed with open arms and endless opportunities. My journey began with humble tasks-mopping floors, washing pots, cooking, and grocery shopping. My only dream then was to own a small restaurant. Yet, this amazing city, which embraced me so warmly, offered a platform to dream bigger, strive harder, and achieve more.”

“I eventually earned the title of the Curry King of Greater London. Inspired by the support I received, I vowed to give back to this incredible nation. Today, I am deeply honoured to have been awarded the Freedom of the City of London, one of the city’s highest accolades. This journey taught me that opportunities are abundant for those who seek them, giving back enriches both the giver and the community, and recognition comes when you dedicate yourself to making a difference.”

Raza has been running the “No One Eats Alone on Christmas Day” campaign since 2015, serving homeless people in Croydon, South London. His “One Million Meals” campaign has served over 300 locations and 47 hospitals across the UK, providing meals to NHS key workers and vulnerable individuals.

Previously, Raza honoured with the Points of Light Award by Prime Minister Boris Johnson for his “One Million Meals” campaign, which provided free meals to frontline workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Additionally, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to business and philanthropy.

The Freedom of the City of London is an ancient tradition dating back to 1237. Originally, it granted citizens the right to trade freely within the city. Today, it is a symbolic honour awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to London or public life. The ceremony takes place at Guildhall, where recipients are presented with a parchment document known as The Copy of the Freedom.