Sbba Siddique, director of Asian Star Radio and founder of Slough-based knitting group Knit Your Socks Off, was honoured at the National Arqiva British Asian Media Awards.
She was recognised for her podcast, Cancer – Taboos and Stigmas, which was a finalist in the Podcast of the Year category.
The podcast, a collaboration between Asian Star Radio and Macmillan Cancer Support, was inspired by Ms Siddique’s personal experience of cancer.
(Image: Sbba Siddique)
She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in March 2022 and, during her treatment, noticed health inequalities within the healthcare system and the reluctance within the South Asian community to discuss cancer.
This led to the creation of a six-episode podcast where Ms Siddique had open and frank conversations with various guests about cancer, particularly from a South Asian perspective.
Her guests, who were experts in their fields, shared their views on how to challenge the health inequalities faced by historically marginalised communities, as well as the taboos and stigmas surrounding cancer within the South Asian community.
The aim of the podcast was to confront these issues head-on and draw conclusions on how to overcome these challenges for better outcomes for future generations.
After winning the award, Ms Siddique said: “I am absolutely delighted to have won this award; it’s an incredible recognition.
“Cancer is still a taboo subject in the South Asian community and the podcast aimed to unpack and tackle these head-on in order to normalise these conversations.
“My own diagnosis opened my eyes to the lack of symptoms awareness around most cancers.
“It is vital to raise awareness in order to empower women to be able to effectively self-advocate.
“Knowledge is power and early diagnosis will save lives and ensure better outcomes and less invasive treatments.”
Ms Siddique was presented with the award at a star-studded ceremony at the Dilly Hotel in London on Thursday, February 27.
The National Arqiva British Asian Media Awards celebrate and recognise the achievements and contributions of individuals and organisations in the British Asian media industry.
The awards acknowledge excellence in various categories, including radio, television, print, online, and film, as well as outstanding individuals and initiatives that have made a significant impact on the industry.
By celebrating the talent and hard work within the British Asian media landscape, the awards aim to inspire and encourage future generations to pursue their passions and contribute positively to the media industry.
Ms Siddique’s success at the awards is a testament to her dedication and commitment to raising awareness about cancer and tackling the taboos and stigmas surrounding it.
