Having negotiated the system over six years she now advocates for asylum reform as an artist and photographer.
Ms Sikandar has won two prizes at the World Food Photography Awards sponsored by Tenderstem in the UK for UNHCR Food As Home category.
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Her pictures, from Mandi Sweet House and Qasba, took both the first and second prizes.
Ms Sikandar said: “The journey behind these photographs was not an easy one. I visited many restaurants across Glasgow, asking for permission to photograph their kitchen spaces. It took a great deal of time, energy, patience, and determination, but every step of the journey was worth it.
Sadia Sikandar’s photo from Qasba (Image: Sadia Sikandar)
“I’m delighted that two of my photographs were shortlisted one taken at Mandi Sweet House and the other at Qasba Restaurant.
“Seeing both of my images selected and displayed at the exhibition was already a dream come true, but the excitement didn’t stop there.
“My photograph from Qasba Restaurant went on to win the category and Mandi sweet house photograph got 2nd place.
“There were several times in my photography journey when people believed it was not worth mentioning the photographer’s name – simply because I am a Muslim woman.
“There were also many occasions when people tried to push me into remaining invisible.
“What they did not know is that God has His own plan. At the right time, He allows you to shine and blesses you with honour and recognition.
Sadia Sikandar’s photo from Mandi Sweet House (Image: Sadia Sikandar)
“Today, I feel truly blessed. Photographers from more than 30 countries took part in this event, and receiving an award and appreciation from some of the world’s leading photographers and judges at the opening ceremony is a moment I will always cherish.
“I would also like to take a moment to thank Paul Sweeney for always encouraging me and appreciating my photography skills.
“My sincere thanks to Baltic Art Gallery and Walking With North Tyneside, with whom I worked on a photography project about asylum seekers’ stories: Asylum: A Long Painful Journey. Yesterday, the exhibition opened once again at new venue Newcastle Cathedral, and it was a tremendous success.
“Finally, thank you to Refuweegee and the Scottish Refugee Council for consistently supporting and valuing my work as a photographer.
“I am deeply grateful for every opportunity, every challenge, and everyone who has believed in me along the way.”