Building the Next Generation of British Muslim Leaders
Alia Sheikh
NextGen Lead
Board Advisor
Muslim Trade Forum
MTF NextGen is the Muslim Trade Forum's platform for developing the next generation of British Muslim leaders in trade, finance and international affairs. Established as a strategic initiative of MTF, it brings together ambitious professionals who want to develop their leadership, broaden their networks and contribute to an institution committed to strengthening Britain's engagement with the wider Muslim world.
British Muslims are one of the UK's most entrepreneurial, internationally connected and professionally accomplished communities. Across business, law, finance, technology, academia and public service, a new generation is emerging with the expertise, ambition and global outlook to lead. MTF NextGen exists to provide the institutional platform through which that talent can connect, develop and contribute.
Our vision is to make MTF the definitive institutional home for ambitious British Muslim professionals. Our mission is to build, support and accelerate leaders through structured professional development, mentorship, institutional access and international engagement. Guided by the principle of being grounded in our faith, driven by ambition and connected to the world, we seek to cultivate leaders who combine professional excellence with integrity, purpose and service.
NextGen provides opportunities to learn from established business and professional leaders, build meaningful relationships across sectors and engage with the wider MTF network. Members are encouraged to contribute their expertise, exchange ideas and play an active role in strengthening the Forum's work, while developing the skills and experience needed to become future leaders within their professions and the institution itself.
International engagement is central to our approach. Through MTF's relationships across the Muslim world, NextGen promotes greater understanding of global markets and creates opportunities to engage with trade, investment and policy beyond the United Kingdom. By strengthening connections with high-growth Muslim economies, we aim to foster lasting commercial, professional and institutional partnerships that benefit both the UK and the wider international community.
MTF NextGen is building a leadership pipeline for the future, one that connects talent to opportunity, strengthens institutions and ensures that the next generation of British Muslim professionals is equipped to make a lasting contribution to the United Kingdom and the global economy.
Mission Statement
To economically empower the British Muslim business community, foster unity among Muslim entrepreneurs, and build robust trade and investment linkages between the United Kingdom and the 57 member countries of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), through collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth.
Vision
To establish a dynamic and sustainable platform that enables British Muslim businesses to thrive locally and globally, become leaders of innovation and progress, and serve as a bridge between the UK and the broader Muslim world.
Our Objectives
Economic Empowerment
Support the growth and success of Muslim-owned businesses in the UK by facilitating access to opportunities, markets, resources, and networks.
Community
Unification
Bring together British Muslim entrepreneurs, professionals, and organisations under one collaborative platform to share knowledge, build capacity, and amplify impact.
International Trade Facilitation
Connect British Muslim businesses with OIC countries to promote bilateral and multilateral trade, investment, and commercial collaboration.
Youth & Women Empowerment
Create inclusive pathways for the next generation of Muslim entrepreneurs and women-led businesses through mentorship, training, and leadership development programs.
Strategic Partnerships
Build institutional linkages with Chambers of Commerce, trade bodies, financial institutions, and government stakeholders across the UK and OIC countries.