Allamah Tabataba'i Award

Empowering the next generation through faith and knowledge

Supporting Shi'a students with opportunities to grow academically, personally, and professionally.

ATA students gathered at the 2016 award ceremony

What is the Allamah Tabataba’i Award?

The Allamah Tabataba’i Award (ATA) is a UK-wide programme that recognises, celebrates, and nurtures high-achieving Shi’a GCSE and A Level students. Inspired by the legacy of Allamah Tabataba’i and the Islamic tradition of scholarship, ATA marks the beginning of a journey of learning, mentorship, leadership, and service. Through educational opportunities, professional guidance and a supportive community, ATA supports students with strengthening their faith, and preparing to become confident, principled, and community-minded leaders of the future.

01

Academic Development

We organise a series of workshops and events, led by Scholars and Sheikhs, to help students develop both their academic and Islamic knowledge. These sessions cover topics such as critical thinking skills and the responsibilities of Muslims living in the West.

02

Mentoring & Networking

Students are paired with mentors who share similar goals or career aspirations. These mentors offer guidance and are available to answer questions. Students are also provided the opportunity to learn from one another and build meaningful connections with the wider community.

03

Awards

Each year, students with outstanding results are recognised with trophies and prizes at the Awards Ceremony. This event provides a unique occasion for Shi’a students to be celebrated by the broader community for their dedication and commitment to academic excellence.

04

Trips

We organise national trips to universities like Cambridge and Oxford for students to learn about campus life and meet with students, as well as international excursions such as Hawza summer schools and Ziyarah trips.

Help shape the next generation of leaders

ATA is built by a community of volunteers. Whether you are a professional, alumni, or community member, you can support students through mentorship, events, workshops, and opportunities across the UK.

Hear from our students

The ATA is a really good networking opportunity and a really great way to connect with people in our year, and to be supported by our community.

Insiya

Class of 2024

The ATA has been really informative, and the lectures have been inspiring.

Muhammad

Class of 2025

It's been great to meet a range of like-minded Shi'a students, and I'm looking forward to gaining knowledge to prepare myself for the future.

Ruqqaya

Class of 2025

The ATA provides a platform for students to be supported whilst learning our values, learning from each other, and helping each other out.

Parent

Class of 2025

The ATA rewards and supports students who excel in their studies and strive for success, and then it provides an opportunity for these students to return as mentors and committee members, to share their knowledge and skills, which is another opportunity to learn and grow further.

Parent

Class of 2025

I agree with all that ATA has to offer, including the learning, mentoring, trips, and ziyarah trip. I think the biggest benefit is being with other like-minded Shi'a students and supporting each other.

Parent

Class of 2025

Class of 2026?

Your journey starts here. Applications are now open for Year 11 and Year 13 students to join ATA’s community of academically ambitious, spiritually grounded young leaders.