Shabir Akhtar moved to Peterborough from Pakistan in 1966 when he was just 12 years old. After finishing school early at 15 years old Shabir got a job working for Baker Perkins. He was the first person of South Asian heritage to obtain an apprenticeship there. Along side working for Perkins, Shabir also volunteered at the Alma Road Sports Club where took up shooting as a hobby.

Shabir has lived in the vicinity of the Allama Iqbal Centre since I was 12 and my children and grandchildren have all attended Beeches Primary School where I had served four terms as a parent governor. He is also a trustee and chair of committee at Gladca which has celebrated 50 years of service. He was more than happy to join Gladstone Connect when approached by the Manager as I enjoy meeting people and serving the local community.