Muslim Influencer Honoured with MBE for Voluntary Work in Scotland
In a moment that reflects a broader shift in how community and voluntary contributions are recognised in the UK, a Scottish Muslim activist and social media influencer has been awarded one of Britain’s official honours for her work promoting inclusion, diversity and access to outdoor spaces. The recognition highlights the growing visibility of grassroots initiatives that challenge traditional social boundaries and expand participation in public life.
“HillWalking Hijabi” Receives MBE
Zahra Mahmood, 35, widely known online as “HillWalking Hijabi”, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in recognition of her contributions to voluntary service in Scotland. She received the honour during a formal ceremony in Edinburgh, attended by Princess Anne.
Mahmood described the award as “extraordinary and unexpected,” admitting that the scale of the recognition was still difficult to fully absorb. She said the honour represented not only personal acknowledgment, but also validation of the wider mission she has pursued for years.
Championing Diversity in the Outdoors
Mahmood currently serves as Chair of Ramblers Scotland, where she has been a prominent advocate for increasing diversity and inclusion in outdoor and recreational spaces—an area historically perceived as inaccessible to many communities due to cultural, social and economic barriers.
Speaking after the ceremony at Holyrood House, Mahmood said the award helps shine a spotlight on efforts to make outdoor activities more welcoming. She noted that official recognition lends credibility not only to individuals, but also to the values and ideas behind their work.
“Open spaces belong to everyone,” she said, stressing that access to nature should not be limited by cultural background, religion or income.
Balancing Public Recognition and Family Life
A mother of two, Mahmood said her family and friends had expressed immense pride in her achievement, though celebrations would be postponed due to family commitments. She added light-heartedly that her husband had promised to mark the occasion properly in the coming weeks.
Other Honourees at the Ceremony
The ceremony also recognised a number of cultural and humanitarian figures. Scottish author Alastair Moffat, 75, received an MBE for his contribution to literature and culture. Moffat, who has written more than 40 books on Scottish history and founded the Borders Book Festival in 2004, described the honour as a milestone rather than a conclusion to his work.
Meanwhile, John and Lorna Norgrove were awarded an OBE for their efforts supporting women and children in Scotland and abroad through the Linda Norgrove Foundation, established in memory of their daughter, who was killed while working on development projects in Afghanistan. The foundation focuses on education, healthcare and improving livelihoods for women.
Messages of Social Cohesion
Earlier in the day, Princess Anne attended an event at St Giles’ Cathedral alongside religious leaders and public figures, emphasising values of reconciliation, shared responsibility and social cohesion. Religious representatives highlighted the importance of collective commitment to protecting communities and fostering mutual respect at a time of growing social division.
The Arab Platform in Britain (AUK) believes that the honour awarded to Zahra Mahmood goes beyond individual recognition and reflects a meaningful evolution in how voluntary work is understood and valued in British society. At a time when debates around identity, belonging and social cohesion are increasingly polarised, this recognition sends a clear message that inclusion and diversity are not merely aspirational ideals, but principles that are actively acknowledged and celebrated at the highest levels. AUK views such recognition as an important step toward a more representative public sphere—one in which minority voices and community-led initiatives are seen as integral to the fabric of British civic life.
Source: Glasgow Live
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