ABDUR Rahman's son has also been nominated for a Bangla Achievement Award.
Shahanoor Rahman has been involved in the family business – the Asian Food Store in Ocean Road, South Shields – since the age of 16.
Friend Shorif Ahmed, who has entered him for Entrepreneur of the Year, said: "Shahanoor sacrificed his education to work at the store, which is also a wholesale specialist.
"He is now running the store, and has made it one of the top suppliers in the North East, supplying over 200 restaurants and takeaways.
"Shahanoor is successful because of his excellent customer relations and professional service.
"He is now looking to expand his business later this year."
Mr Rahman, 30, of Longleat Gardens, South Shields, was nominated in the category last year.
Click here to download an entry form