Last week, I had the honour of attending the Asian Curry Awards at the Grosvenor Hotel in London. The grandeur of the evening was only matched by the incredible individuals who had gathered to celebrate an industry that not only tickles our taste buds but also serves as a backbone of the UK economy.
Did you know the curry industry generates over £4.2 billion annually for our economy? Yes, that’s billion with a ‘B’—and that’s just scratching the surface. The broader food and beverage sector that it influences pulls in a jaw-dropping £74 billion! It’s humbling to realise that the simple joy of tucking into a chicken tikka masala—our unofficial national dish—comes from an industry that fuels jobs, supports families, and enriches communities up and down the country.
When I was invited to speak at the awards, I was truly moved. To be part of an evening that shines a light on the cultural and economic powerhouse behind our favourite comfort food was nothing short of an honour. The room was filled with trailblazing chefs, restaurateurs, and business owners who bring diversity and flavour—not only to our plates but also to our daily lives.
As Miss England, I’ve been fortunate to champion causes close to my heart, but this evening took it to another level. I spoke about my Beauty with a Purpose project—an initiative that’s become central to my role.
To have my Beauty with a Purpose project endorsed by the respected Dipendra Gurung, President of the Gurung family conglomerate, and owner of Himalayan Jet which is a British company, that aims to offer exclusive non stop travel across the world from 2025, along with backing from HRH Prince William, is incredible, and underscores the significance of creating meaningful impact in our communities. Together we aim to bring essential CPR training to every school across the country.
What struck me most about the evening was the diversity in the room—a testament to how the curry industry transcends cultural boundaries. This is about more than food. It’s about people, innovation, and resilience. From the South Asian families who brought their heritage and flavors to British shores decades ago, to the new wave of entrepreneurs redefining the way we enjoy curry, the industry exemplifies what it means to thrive through tradition and change.
As I walked onto the stage at the Grosvenor, I took a moment to look around. It wasn’t just an awards ceremony—it was a celebration of culture, entrepreneurship, and the sense of community that binds us all. Speaking to so many inspiring individuals reminded me of why I do what I do. My title may be Miss England, but my purpose is universal: to use my platform to support, celebrate, and uplift.
So, next time you sit down with a fragrant bowl of chicken tikka masala, a fiery jalfrezi, or a comforting korma, take a moment to appreciate the story behind the dish. It’s a story of hard work, heritage, and hope—a story that keeps our economy thriving and our communities connected.
To the chefs, entrepreneurs, and visionaries who make it all happen: thank you for spicing up our lives in more ways than one.
