The Aziz Foundation was excited to help launch a new comedy platform, Halal Fried Comics, at Zedwell hotel

The Aziz Foundation was excited to help launch a new initiative last night at Zedwell Hotel, Piccadilly.

Halal Fried Comics began life yesterday with 9 spicy comics performing in front of a hugely appreciative audience, which included two MPs and coverage from a TV broadcaster.

The line up was stunningly rich with comics having heritage links to Bangladesh, Somalia, Kazakhstan and Iraq.

• Bampher @bampherr
• Abdul Mustakim @abdul.m_
• Diesel @1micdiesel
• Aisha Amanduri @aishaamanduri
• Saleha Masud @saleha.masud
• Tahrat Shahid @tahrat_naushaba
• Mohaimen @mohaimenjokes
• Hasan Al-Habib @amusingarab
• Safwaan Rahman @standupsaf

Addressing a range of topics from politics, racism and identity, the comics kept the audience enthralled, engaged and in stitches.

The purpose is to encourage more British Muslim participation in this field by providing a safer place where they can hone their craft. The ability to address a whole range of issues using satire and humour is a powerful skill that can lead to improving understanding between communities.