Ali legacy inspires new community drive

A North East community initiative is bringing together people from different cultures, faiths and backgrounds while using the legacy of Muhammad Ali to inspire young people across the region.

The Asians of the North Foundation has launched a new campaign ahead of the 50th anniversary of the boxing legend’s historic visit to Tyneside and South Shields in 1977.

Founded by community advocate Andy Mahmood, the project aims to promote greater understanding and connection between communities while encouraging young people to develop confidence, resilience and leadership skills.

Andy said the project is built around a simple message: “No unity without community”.

He added: “It’s an open platform, inclusive to all and takes its name from the iconic Angel of the North. 

“Asians of the North are looking to encourage conversations, challenge misconceptions and celebrate the shared identity of people living across the region.

“We’ve become very individualistic as a society. 

“Years ago, communities stuck together regardless of religion, culture or background. 

“We want to bring some of that spirit back and remind people that we’re all part of the same community.”

The initiative was formally launched at an event attended by representatives from across the North East’s religious and cultural communities, alongside charities including Newcastle Foodbank, HoodEx, One Nation and Anxious Minds.

A key part of the programme will focus on education and youth engagement. 

Organisers are planning a series of community events and screenings of the documentary City of Ali, which explores the former heavyweight champion’s influence beyond boxing.

Andy added: “It’s a massive opportunity for the North East. 

“Next year marks 50 years since Muhammad Ali came here and we want to celebrate that legacy in a way that brings people together.

“Young people today face a lot of pressures and challenges. 

“We want to create opportunities where they can learn from positive role models and understand that they can achieve great things regardless of their background. 

“Muhammad Ali wasn’t just a world champion boxer; he was somebody who stood up for what he believed in, spoke with courage and used his platform to help others.

“We want to put our arm around the younger generation and help lift them up when they’re struggling. 

“If we can inspire young people to believe in themselves, get involved in their communities and treat others with respect, then we’ll have achieved something worthwhile.”

The campaign has also established links with the Muhammad Ali Centre in Louisville, Kentucky, following discussions about future collaboration between the organisations.

Ali’s connection to the North East remains a significant part of the project’s story. 

During his visit, he met residents across the region and married Veronica Porsche at South Shields’ Al-Azhar Mosque.

Organisers are now planning a programme of events throughout 2027 to mark the anniversary and celebrate the boxer’s lasting impact on communities in the North East and beyond.

Andy added: “Ali stood for much more than boxing.

“He stood for fairness, humanitarian values, respect and unity. 

“Those are the messages we want young people to learn from.

“People still talk about meeting Muhammad Ali. 

“He inspired communities across the North East and showed how one person can bring people together. 

“That's the legacy we want to build on.”

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