The news
We are thrilled to share the remarkable news that Shayma Bhakt, one of our COSARAF Sheikh Family Scholars, has been recognised on the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list for her impactful work in journalism.
Shayma’s inclusion in the 2025 list is a testament to her unwavering commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and shining a light on the issues that matter most—both within the UK Muslim community and globally. A rising star in the media landscape, Shayma is known for her fearless reporting, powerful storytelling, and thoughtful analysis on topics ranging from human rights and social justice to faith, identity, and representation.
Through her work, she has not only elevated critical conversations but also carved out space for diverse narratives in mainstream journalism—an impact that aligns strongly with the values of the COSARAF Foundation and the ethos of the Sheikh Family Scholarship Programme, which supported Shayma during her academic journey.
“I couldn’t have reached this position in my career without the scholarship for my masters” Shayma shared.
The Sheikh Family Scholarship Programme was established to support outstanding Muslim students from underrepresented backgrounds in their pursuit of higher education. Shayma’s success highlights exactly why investment in young, ambitious talent is so vital—not just for the individuals themselves, but for the wider communities they go on to serve and represent.
We are incredibly proud of Shayma and look forward to seeing her continue to break boundaries and inspire a new generation of Muslim journalists.
Congratulations, Shayma—from all of us at COSARAF!
