High profile Dorset businesswoman and chef Sarah Ali Choudhury hosted a video conference on behalf of the Cabinet Office.

The government department invited Black, Asian and ethnic minority (BAME) businesses to take part in a round table discussion on business support surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.

The Cabinet Office had asked Michelle Ovens MBE, of Small Business Britain and F: Entrepreneur, to be involved and help organise the meeting.

She suggested Sarah should co-host the Zoom meeting and also share her experiences and suggestions.

Sarah, who’s known as Dorset’s Curry Queen, said: “I’ve never done anything as exciting as this regarding the round tables and with the Cabinet Office so jumped at the chance.

“It was a brilliant turnout with over 25 people attending and taking part in a very successful online meeting.

“I am reaching out to anyone who is facing any issues and barriers which stop them from getting hold of advice such as language barriers or lack of technical skills.”

The meeting was joined by Summer Nisar, Deputy Director, Strategy, Policy and Engagement in the Race Disparity Unit (RDU).

Sarah, who is the incoming president for Poole Bay Rotary Club, received a 95 per cent pass mark in her equality and diversity training earlier this month.

It was for her role as district leader for equality, diversity and inclusion with Rotary International.