The Shama Women’s Centre, a Leicester-based charity dedicated to empowering women and fostering community engagement, has received the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This honor, which holds the same significance as an MBE, acknowledges the center’s commitment to assisting women who may face isolation due to cultural constraints.
CEO Khudeja Amer-Sharif expressed her immense pride and joy upon receiving the award, stating she was “delighted” and “thrilled” for all those involved in the organization. The announcement of the award coincided with King Charles’ birthday, an occasion celebrated by the center alongside 230 other recipients.
A Longstanding Commitment to Community
Located on Sparkenhoe Street, the Shama Women’s Centre has a rich history, having served the community for 37 years. During this time, it has positively impacted over 45,000 women, helping them engage more actively in their communities.
Programs and Initiatives
Ms. Amer-Sharif highlighted the various programs offered at the center, which include sessions, classes, and a nursery aimed at promoting participation in societal activities. “It’s such an achievement for all of us,” she remarked, reflecting on the center’s journey and impact.
Community Recognition
She added, “When I go out, wherever I am, I always bump into someone who has had a positive experience of our services, and that makes me very proud.” This sentiment underscores the center’s significant role within the community and its influence on individuals’ lives.
Acknowledgment of Volunteer Efforts
Sir Martyn Lewis, chairman of the King’s Award, commended the recipients by noting that for over twenty years, these awards have showcased the exemplary spirit of volunteerism in the UK, bringing together diverse communities to address various societal needs.
