Speaker Rtn Saleem Kader President of Bradford Brontë

For the benefit of our new members and those not in attendance when he last spoke to us Saleem started his talk by giving a brief outline of his family history. Details of this history can be found by following this link Saleem Kader. As an update to this he said that the business continues to evolve and now they sell 70% of their goods online under different names such as Fabric Freedom, Perfect Occasions Fabric and Dreams Fabric. He said that he now intends to stand back from the business and let his two sons run it.

Saleem says that he is very keen to bring different communities together. As such he has been involved with lots of things. One such being the Chamber of Commerce where only 2% Asian participate even though they make up 30% of Bradford’s population.

He is now very involved with a Bradford 2025 Campaign “Positive Bradford”. One aspect of this is called “We Are Together” which aims to get people talking about the positive side of the City. Our differences make it stronger, and we need to create better understanding between people of different cultures. The objectives of this campaign are: -

• Celebrate Contribution – To recognise and showcase the social, cultural and economic contributions of migrants and diverse communities across the UK.
• Promote Unity and Inclusion - To bring communities together by fostering understanding, respect, and shared identity.
• Challenge Negative Narratives – To counter misinformation and highlight real stories and positive impact.
• Amplify Voices - To provide a platform for individuals, professionals, and community leaders.
• Engage Communities Nationwide – To build a national movement starting in Bradford.
• Empower Ambassadors - To support ambassadors who represent leadership and contribution.
• Educate and Raise Awareness – To inform the public about the value of diversity.
• Encourage Collaboration – To work with businesses and organisations for meaningful partnerships.
• Inspire Future Generations – To motivate young people to achieve and contribute.
• Strengthen Community Cohesion – To build lasting relationships and a shared sense of belonging.

Saleem said that he was a member of Rotary between 2006 and 2012 but had to leave because of business pressure. He rejoined three years ago and this year as Bronte President he has made it a mission for the club to visit heritage sites such as Saltaire, Cartwright Hall, Undercliffe Cemetery, and Brontes Bradford Live among others.

He is also trying to get links to International Rotary Clubs such as Karachi (where his cousin is District Governor), Melbourne, and Tokyo. He is working to get more Corporate Members in the Club.

One aspect where Bronte are attempting to get all Bradford clubs involved is the planting of 4 trees in the city centre with plaques on them to spread message to younger people about Rotary. They are also behind organising a a big event at Bradford Park Avenue to highlight Rotary.