A club set up to strengthen and deepen the connection between Birmingham City FC and the South Asian community, has been shortlisted in the Fan Group category of the 2024 Asian Football Awards (AFA).
The Blues 4 All group’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity in football by providing access to match day experiences for underrepresented communities, coincides with the 10th anniversary of the supporter-driven initiative and a new era of investment at the Club.
Blues 4 All, led by father and son Micky and Bik Singh, has grown into a powerful force for positive change. Helping to transform and extend the fanbase of Birmingham City FC’s Men and Women’s teams, the group has been engaging with thousands of members from local churches, gurdwaras, mosques, mandirs, grassroots, and community organisations.
The group has been shortlisted three times at the prestigious National FSA Awards and won the Fans for Diversity Award in 2017. Boosted attendance and involvement in the women’s game, particularly among local South Asian communities, and supported fans during the COVID-19 pandemic – presenting virtual watch parties, mental health-focused social events, a running club, and food parcel deliveries are all part of their outreach work.
Winners of the AFAs will be announced during a star-studded ceremony hosted by Sky Sports News presenter Dharmesh Sheth held at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday 25th September with appearances from pioneering figures within the footballing community including BCFC’s rising star Brandon Khela.
Blues 4 All founder Micky Singh said, “This nomination is a true testament to everyone who has contributed to the Blues 4 All initiative over the years.
“As we approach our tenth anniversary, it feels especially fitting that our work is recognised through a shortlist for this award.
“We look forward to the event and wish all the nominees the best of luck.”
As a multicultural fan group primarily composed of members from South Asian communities, the Blues 4 All key objective remains to ensure that every child in Birmingham experiences the excitement of a Birmingham City FC match, building a lifelong connection with the club.
With senior members on the Football Supporters Association’s Fans for Diversity guidance group, Blues 4 All also helps, advises and inspires other club fan groups on best practice for promoting diversity and inclusion in English football.
Their influence extends beyond the terraces, with the group actively involved in fundraising efforts for causes such as Cure Leukaemia, Love Brum, and the Birmingham City Foundation, cementing their place as true community champions.
Bik Singh, Club Secretary of Blues 4 All, said: “We’re absolutely chuffed to have made the shortlist for the Fan Group Award.
“A lot of heart, energy, and soul has gone into Blues 4 All, and we’re delighted that our efforts have been recognised on a national scale by the South Asian football community.
“We look forward to sharing and celebrating our collective work at Wembley.”
The Asian Football Awards celebrate excellence in the industry while also providing a vital space to acknowledge community and voluntary contributions. The awards aim to honour inspiring role models who have shown remarkable dedication and effort in their respective fields.
Established to acknowledge and reward the contributions of British South Asians in the football industry, the Asian Football Awards (AFA) serve as a significant platform.
The primary objective is to showcase the diverse talents of coaches, volunteers, players, administrators, and fans within the South Asian community who share a profound love for the game.
The Asian Football Awards recognises British South Asians with heritage from the countries of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives.
