Imran Shah MBE
Chair, Police Independent Advisory Group and Community Leader, West Yorkshire Police
Community Leader Imran Shah Backs Kiswat Al Kaaba Exhibition at Masjid Usman
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In a moment of unity and vision, Imran Shah, Chair of the Leeds District Police Independent Advisory Group (IAG) and Founder & Lead of the Digital Cohesion Unit, visited the Kiswat Al Kaaba Exhibition at Masjid Usman (Khalaliya Masjid)—a gathering that brought sacred history, community cohesion, and dialogue to the forefront
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His visit was marked by sincere engagement and deep respect for the artefacts and the mission behind the exhibition
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A Humble Encounter with Sacred Heritage
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During his time at the exhibition, Sheikh Ilyas personally guided Imran Shah through a moving narrative of the Kiswa artefacts—priceless remnants from the Holy Kaaba and the Rawdah in Madinah. Imran Shah listened attentively and with humility, demonstrating genuine reverence for the historical and spiritual weight of what was being presented.
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“He wasn’t just a guest; he was a student of the moment,” remarked one team member. “His humility, focus, and understanding reflected a deep care for what this project means for our community.”
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Understanding the Mission, Embracing the Vision
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Imran Shah expressed clear alignment with the exhibition’s broader purpose: to preserve sacred Islamic heritage, promote community empowerment, and establish a permanent Kiswa Arts & Culture Gallery as a national centre for learning, dialogue, and legacy
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He acknowledged how vital such initiatives are in shaping intergenerational education, strengthening cultural understanding, and nurturing meaningful community cohesion—values he advocates for through both his policing advisory work and his leadership of the Digital Cohesion Unit.
More Than a Visit — A Statement of Support
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Imran Shah’s presence was not fleeting. He spent considerable time with the Kiswat Al Kaaba team, exchanging ideas, listening intently, and offering quiet encouragement. His support symbolised a deeper partnership between civic leadership and grassroots heritage efforts
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“Imran Shah’s engagement sends a powerful message—that safeguarding heritage and identity is everyone’s responsibility, and collaboration is the way forward,” said one of the organisers
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A Step Closer to a National Vision
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The Kiswat Al Kaaba Exhibition continues to build momentum in cities across the UK, connecting people through faith, history, and unity. Imran Shah’s involvement at Masjid Usman reinforced that community leaders understand the need for platforms that bridge culture, faith, and civic life.
His visit leaves behind not just fond memories—but a renewed sense of purpose in turning the vision of the Kiswa Arts & Culture Gallery into a lasting reality
A powerful series of images capturing Imran Shah, Chair of the Leeds District Police IAG, during his immersive visit to the Kiswat Al Kaaba Exhibition at Masjid Usman (Khalaliya Masjid).
Another striking image shows Sheikh Ilyas pointing to a specific artefact, highlighting how the piece is crafted using pure gold and silver threads woven into rich mulberry silk, preserving a tradition of sacred artistry known for its purity and spiritual significance
he final shot captures the essence of the mission—building the UK’s first-ever Kiswa Arts & Culture Gallery. It’s a moment of vision, legacy, and unity, as Imran Shah stands with the team in full support, understanding how such a centre will empower communities, educate future generations, and preserve Islamic heritage on British soil
A powerful series of images capturing Imran Shah, Chair of the Leeds District Police IAG, during his immersive visit to the Kiswat Al Kaaba Exhibition at Masjid Usman (Khalaliya Masjid).