Arshad Ahmad Shahbaz Honoured with Award for Promoting Intercultural Harmony in German Society

In a dignified ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Social Affairs of the German state of Hessen, renowned social worker Arshad Ahmad Shahbaz received an honorary award in recognition of his long standing, sincere and selfless services to society. The distinction was presented by the State Advisory Council for Foreign Residents of Hessen, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to social welfare and intercultural harmony.

The award ceremony took place on the evening of 20 November 2025 at the State Parliament House in Wiesbaden. It was attended by representatives of social and welfare organizations, local political figures and members of intercultural associations. The presence of prominent community activist Malik Kamran from Rüsselsheim, along with Akbar Javed and Muhammad Yaqoob both active members of the Foreigners’ Advisory Board in the scientific city of Darmstadt added further prestige to the event. The atmosphere radiated warmth, sincerity and mutual respect.

When the name of Arshad Ahmad Shahbaz was announced, the auditorium resounded with enthusiastic applause, expressing deep appreciation for his exemplary service. The award certificate was handed to him by the guest of honour, Hessen’s Minister for Labour, Integration, Youth and Social Affairs, Ms. Heike Hoffmann, who presented it with great respect and delight. The moment became a cherished memory for all attendees and the broader community.

Also present on stage were Ms. Katrin Hechler, State Secretary in the Hessian Ministry for Labour, Integration, Youth, and Social Affairs. and Mr. Enes Glegin, Chairman of the Central Foreigners’ Advisory Council of Hessen. Their participation further enhanced the significance and splendour of the occasion.

For the past two decades Arshad Ahmad Shahbaz has served the Foreigners’ Advisory Board of Darmstadt as an active member and vice chairman. With tireless dedication, he has worked to promote love, peace, mutual respect and societal harmony.

Over the years, he has launched several practical initiatives to strengthen relations among diverse nationalities and cultures. These include intercultural friendly sports tournaments such as basketball, cricket and football welfare activities, visits to senior citizens’ homes, tree-planting campaigns and charity walks. He has also maintained active communication with government departments to seek guidance and support for individuals with migration backgrounds. As a result, trust, cooperation and mutual respect among various communities, seniors, youth and people from different cultural backgrounds have grown stronger.

Speaking after receiving the award, Arshad Ahmad Shahbaz said he has always strived to help migrants and people of foreign origin integrate successfully into German society. He emphasized that everyone has a role in fostering love, respect and peace, and that true societal harmony can only be achieved through continuous dialogue and cooperation among different groups and cultures.

He further stated that, for him, the award represents a continuation of humanitarian service and a renewed commitment. In his view, the real strength of any society lies in mutual trust and respect values that form the foundation of a successful, balanced and peaceful community. At the end of his remarks, he reiterated his guiding message that brings healing to humanity. “Love for all, hatred for none.”

A message that inspires hope and breathes new life into a suffering world. The ceremony concluded with warm applause, heartfelt good wishes and a shared resolve to continue promoting positive and constructive social engagement.