In a groundbreaking moment, Farzana Baduel, CEO and Co-Founder of Curzon PR, achieves a historic milestone as the first ethnic minority and British Asian woman to be awarded the prestigious Honorary Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR). The CIPR, known as the world’s only Royal Chartered professional body for public relations professionals, boasts almost 10,000 members. Established in 1967, the Honorary Fellowship is a highly esteemed accolade granted by the CIPR’s Board of Directors in recognition of exceptional contributions to the Institute and the advancement of the public relations profession.
This unprecedented recognition marks a significant step forward in promoting diversity and inclusion within the industry. Farzana’s remarkable service and outstanding contributions to the field have rightfully placed her among an elite group of only 54 distinguished recipients of this honor.
Notably, the public relations industry, which significantly contributes £16.7bn to the UK economy, employs nearly 100,000 professionals. However, a recent CIPR report has underscored the need to address the lack of diversity, which continues to impede skill development and recruitment within the sector.
Expressing her gratitude, Farzana Baduel stated, ‘I am deeply humbled and honored to receive the CIPR’s Honorary Fellowship. This achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a significant stride for diversity and inclusion in our field. My hope is that this recognition will inspire the upcoming generation of PR professionals, particularly those from ethnic minority backgrounds.’
Aside from her notable accomplishments, Farzana serves as the Resident Public Relations expert for the University of Oxford’s Entrepreneurship Centre at Said Business School. Additionally, she contributes as a Trustee on the board of the British Asian Trust, an organization dedicated to combating poverty in South Asia.
CIPR President Steve Shepperson-Smith Chart. PR, FCIPR, commended Farzana, along with other distinguished recipients, stating, ‘I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to Farzana, Richard, Tony, Paul, and Peter for their invaluable service and contributions to the CIPR and our industry over many years. I am delighted that their dedication to professional practice and mentorship for the next generation of practitioners has been duly acknowledged with the Honorary Fellowship.’
