Who are we?
Pakistan Association Liverpool is a registered charity works in and around Liverpool with it's inhabitants and the local authorities. We work to improve the lives of those in our communities in many aspects, using education, social welfare and recreational activities.
Despite our name, we do not exclusively work for the Pakistani community as we are a multicultural community. This means that no matter your identity, you are welcome.
Our association is a democratically elected body and a registered charity. Our committee, solely consisting of volunteers, works hard to stay active in local communities across Liverpool.
The PAL Centre is a purpose built multicultural centre which is catered towards everyone in the city, and everyone is welcome in our doors. We offer many services at the centre so that nobody will feel left out.
Early days
Our history
In 1947, the British Raj - the rule of the British crown on modern day Bangladesh, India and Pakistan - came to and end after nearly 200 years. On the 14th of August 1947, Pakistan gained its independence. This had great effect on the world, and it is what led to the formation of what is now called the Pakistan Association of Liverpool.
On this day, the Muslim members of the Indian Association pledged their allegiance to the newly formed Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and formed the PAL.
Mr Ali Mohammed was elected as the first president of this association. The members would hold their meetings in his home, and it is here where they would discuss their plans for the association. The association would only grow with time, as they offered support to early settlers with a link to their homeland.
One of the main aims of PAL was to offer support to the people of Pakistan, as all of the members knew of the hardship their loved ones were facing in the newly formed country.
​
Later years to modern day
In 1969, the first president of PAL resigned from the position as he wanted the association to be led by someone better suited to handling the growing needs of the community. The second president, Mr Syed Safiruddin, was elected in 1969.
He was, by all accounts, a great fit for the role. He led the association to great things, including being recognized and supported by the Liverpool City Council.
On the 11th of December 1976, the president laid the foundation stone for a youth and community centre. The Pakistan Multicultural Youth and Community Centre was officially opened by the then Lord Mayor of Liverpool in 1977.
The third president of the association, Mr Mohammad Arshad, was elected in 2005.
In 2007, the fourth president, Mr Sarfraz Ali, was elected. He had previously held the position of general secretary in the association for many years. He brought many improvements to the association, such as when he helped secure a substantial grant to refurbish the centre. The Big Lotteries Reaching Communities Fund allowed the PAL Centre to provide more up to date facilities to the community.
In 2022, Mr Sarfraz Ali stepped down due to his health, and Mr Ahmed Munir, the former Vice President of the association took his place. Mr Ahmed Munir, the current president, dedicates his life to social work, and constantly works towards the betterment of the community.