On International Women’s Day, RISE CEO, Kuljit Sandhu, was awarded the Humanitarian Services Award from the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and Duchess of Lamberton.
This recognition is shared by all at RISE as we endeavour to create safer communities by providing courses to reduce and eliminate harmful behaviour.
The UPF event “Harmony through Diversity” was celebrated on International Women’s Day, followed by a Ramadan Iftar gathering. It’s core aim was to raise awareness and showcase the work of women who contribute to the community and bettering people’s lives.
International Women’s Day has existed since 1911, standing for gender equality and women’s rights. RISE stands with this and we support this notion for a fairer, equal society, to #AccelerateAction to achieve change. Receiving the Humanitarian Award on this day was very special. Here is what the UPF said about Kuljit and the award:
“Kuljit Sandhu, CEO of RISE, supports women from racialized and disadvantaged backgrounds in overcoming challenges. Beginning as a probation officer in Lambeth in the 1990s, she specialized in domestic abuse, diversity, and equality, developing mentoring and intervention programs. In response to the need for rehabilitation reforms that transform lives, she founded RISE, securing the largest offender program contract in Europe. Her holistic, family-centred approach advances peace, social justice, and rehabilitation.”
Duchess Nivin El-Gamal presented Kuljit with her award (pictured) as well as honouring other women for their achievements in humanitarian and social empowerment. After the awards, the Ramadan Iftar Program began and the fast was broken so guests could enjoy a dinner and a speech from the UK’s UPF Secretary General, Robin Marsh. Margaret Ali, Director of UPF and Ian Pelham Turner, patron, also emphasised the role of women in fostering better communities and societies.