The chairman of Southampton based Pukaar project, Romail Gulzar, was one of 450 guests invited to meet the Prime Minister in recognition of his services in the non-profit sector.

Pukaar is a multicultural community music project, whose aim is to bring people together through music, bridging the gap between communities and generations.

Mr Gulzar had the pleasure of meeting Paul Boateng, former Minister of Home Affairs, who is the first person of ethnic minority to hold a ministerial position. He said: “It was a great experience meeting Mr Boateng, and seeing the PM and the government recognise all our hard work. “As a refugee myself, I take great pleasure in helping other refugees find jobs and refine their expertise, using Pukaar as a medium to mix their culture, with British culture.”

Pukaar project was registered as a charity organisation only a year ago, and has already organised many fundraising and cultural events, with many more in the coming months. The Pukaar Curry night takes place at the end of every month at the Natraj restaurant, on London Road, the next one being the 31st of March. The scheme promotes and encourages young and upcoming talent within the field of music, arts and drama, including refugee artists, in Southampton and around the UK.

If you would like to get involved with Pukaar project or if you would like more information, please visit our website at http://www.pukaar.org.uk or call on 02380224710.