Former One Direction star Zayn Malik has been named the ambassador for Bradford’s City of Culture year. The 31-year-old singer, originally from West Bowling but now spending much of his time in the US, will represent Bradford throughout its year as the UK City of Culture in 2025.
Malik is set to attend some of the 1,000 shows, exhibitions, and events scheduled for the year. He expressed his excitement about the role, saying, “I’ve travelled all over the world but my roots and family remain in Bradford.”
The announcement was made at Bradford City’s Valley Parade stadium. Malik first gained fame with the boy band One Direction in 2010 and pursued a solo career after leaving the group in 2015. In a video message shown at the event, he remarked, “Bradford is and always will be home to me. It’s a very special place and I’m happy to see it being recognised as the UK City of Culture for 2025. There are some exciting projects I am taking part in throughout the year that I can’t wait to share with you. Now we can celebrate this great city and the people who live and work here with the rest of the world.”
A new “Love Bradford 2025” logo was unveiled alongside plans to recruit more than 3,500 volunteers from the district. Additionally, three free events are scheduled for this year leading up to 2025.
Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director of Bradford 2025, stated, “In 2024 we’re gearing up for a district-wide cultural programme which will put Bradford on a national and international stage. I’m thrilled Bradford’s very own superstar Zayn Malik is joining us on this journey – his creative vision and passion for his hometown strongly align with our brand values. Zayn’s involvement, as well as the three special events in 2024, are just a taste of what’s to come in 2025. This is the start – our countdown has begun.”
The free events will commence this spring with “Where It Began,” an art exhibition by British-Pakistani artist Osman Yousefzada, running from May 3 to October 13. On August 24, the French street theatre company Compagnie OFF will perform in the city centre. Additionally, “Four Nations: Bradford” will feature portraits of people from the city displayed throughout the district in September.
Ryan Sparks, Chief Executive at Bradford City AFC, commented, “It is a really huge success for Bradford to have obtained UK City of Culture status for next year. We will be carrying wording with a nod to the UK City of Culture below the crest on our playing shirts for the next two seasons, which will be worn with huge pride in what Bradford has accomplished.”
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