A female finance professional has been recognised for her outstanding leadership in the housing sector after winning a major industry award.
Zafrin Khan-Wheatley, Director of Financial Strategy, Planning & Performance at housing association L&Q, was named Inspirational Leader of the Year at the G15 Ethnicity in Housing Awards at a ceremony held on 16 October.
A mother of two, Zafrin joined L&Q as a Development and Sales Accountant in 2011 before rising through the organisation to become one of its most senior finance leaders.
With more than 20 years’ experience across housing, education, health, social care and the voluntary sector, she now leads a team of more than 80 finance professionals and oversees financial planning and reporting for the organisation.
A proud Londoner, third-generation immigrant and resident of Shepherd’s Bush, Zafrin is passionate about community development and social impact. In 2018, she was named Finance Professional of the Year at the Women in Housing Awards and completed both her BA and MA in Accounting at the University of Greenwich. Alongside her role at L&Q, she serves as a trustee for youth homelessness charity Centrepoint, supporting efforts to improve outcomes for vulnerable young people.
The Inspirational Leader Award celebrates ethnically diverse leaders who inspire others, nurture talent and create opportunities for colleagues to thrive. Zafrin was recognised for her authentic, inclusive, people-focused leadership style and the positive impact she has had across L&Q and the wider housing sector.
A key part of her leadership has been supporting the development of others through coaching and mentoring, helping colleagues build confidence, achieve their ambitions and progress their careers.
Speaking about the award, Suki Sarai, Head of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at L&Q, said:
“We are incredibly proud of Zafrin and this fantastic achievement. Her commitment to supporting colleagues, developing talent and creating opportunities for others to thrive has had a significant impact across the organisation. This award is thoroughly deserved and reflects the positive difference she makes every day.”
The G15 Ethnicity in Housing Awards marks the achievements and contributions of ethnic minority professionals working across the social housing sector and are organised by the G15 group of London’s largest not-for-profit housing associations in partnership with inclusion network UNIFY.
