By Kunal Chan Mehta, FSB’s Public Relations Manager  – 25 Jul 2025

FSB is delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Mr Moslem Boushehrian, Lecturer in Criminology at FSB Croydon, who has been honoured with the prestigious Sophie and Sylvia Lancaster Prize by the British Society of Criminology Hate Crime Network. 

This distinguished national accolade recognises exceptional contributions to public understanding of hate crime. Mr Boushehrian earned the award for his thought-provoking podcast series Community Hour – Hate Crime Mis-perceptions, which has reached diverse audiences through Awaaz FM, Fiesta FM, and Spotify. 

The judging panel commended the series for its innovative, accessible, and community-centred approach to education. Through a compelling blend of expert insight and lived experience, the podcast engages listeners in crucial conversations around the societal and legal dimensions of hate crime, including misperception, underreporting, and the silencing of marginalised voices. 

“I am deeply honoured to receive this award,” said Mr Boushehrian. “I wish to thank the British Society of Criminology, the Hate Crime Network, and the many inspiring individuals and communities who made Community Hour possible. I dedicate this recognition to Dr Nevill Lawrence and Alison Vincent, whose lifelong dedication to hate crime awareness continues to guide and inspire this work.” 

Dr Nevill Lawrence’s tireless pursuit of justice following the racist murder of his son, Stephen Lawrence, led to the 1999 Macpherson Report – a watershed moment that exposed institutional racism and introduced the perception-based definition of hate crime. His advocacy redefined national policy, placing victims at the centre of the hate crime framework.
 

Alison Vincent, Chief Executive of the Sophie Lancaster Foundation, has expanded the definition of hate crime through her pioneering work on alternative subculture hostility. Under her leadership, Greater Manchester Police became the first force to record such incidents, setting a precedent now gaining national traction. Her advocacy continues to influence law enforcement and education alike.
 

Together, their legacies have reshaped the UK’s legal and cultural response to hate – building a more inclusive, responsive, and victim-focused system. 

Mr Mohammed Zaidi, FSB’s CEO, praised the achievement, stating: 

“This award is a testament to Mr Boushehrian’s academic rigour and social vision. At FSB, we nurture bold academics who are unafraid to challenge injustice and this recognition exemplifies our values in action. His work empowers communities, amplifies unheard voices and delivers real-world impact – the very definition of meaningful academia.” 

Dr Ben Abudawood, Associate Dean at FSB Croydon, added: “Moslem’s dedication extends far beyond the classroom. His commitment to using education as a force for social justice is evident in every episode of Community Hour. We are incredibly proud of his contribution to hate crime awareness, and this national honour is richly deserved.” 

FSB warmly congratulates Mr Boushehrian on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to the continued growth and influence of Community Hour as an educational and community platform. 

You can listen to the podcast here:
🔗 Community Hour – Hate Crime Mis-perceptions 

For any questions, please contact the author, Kunal Chan Mehta, at kunal.mehta@fairfield.ac.     

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