Penarth women awarded British Empire Medals for charity work
Barbara Connell and Catherine Grove, both from Penarth, were recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours.
For 30 years, the pair have been travelling to the West African country, aiming to make a difference in the lives of the locals.
During a holiday in 1996, the women saw the challenges faced by families in one of the world’s poorest countries, including the inability to afford school fees.
This led to the establishment of Kotu Trust, which focuses on providing education and other support to break the cycle of poverty.
The British Empire Medal is given to UK residents who make a significant contribution to the community both overseas and in the UK.
The British High Commissioner is set to present the medals in The Gambia next year.
The pair, who have visited the country twice a year for the past 30 years at their own expense, ensure that the help they provide is tailored to the specific needs of the families they support.
This can range from providing an electricity supply for studying at night to simply supplying pencils for school.
The long-term aim of the trust is for individuals and families to become financially independent.
The women have funded their work through sponsorship, fundraising events, and personal donations.
Their efforts have seen many young Gambians succeed in various trades, including law, medicine, business, and finance.
Credit: Source link