Shining among the Order of the British Empire honorary knighthood distinctions, Andy Murray and David Beckham, Harpal Kumar (the chief executive of Cancer Research UK) and 34 other South Asians were honoured by the Queen.
Kumar was knighted in recognition of his amazing research and contributions to the health sector. The Queen’s New Year Honours List for 2016 recognizes the outstanding contributions of individuals across the country’s many communities. It's a huge achievement for Kumar, who started out as a chemical engineer. He attended the University at Cambridge and Harvard University before flourishing in the healthcare field.
His citation commended his work as being "hugely influential in promoting research into the prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of cancer, and cancer care. CRUK’s income and research spend are at an all-time high.” Kumar was floored by the decision, which was a heartening surprise.
“It's a privilege to lead Cancer Research UK. More than anything, this Honour recognises the extraordinary innovation and dedication of our scientists and clinicians to beating cancer, the creativity and passion of our fundraisers and amazing volunteers with their commitment to maintaining the highest standards, and the tenacity and belief of our policy and information professionals in driving change at all levels and in providing outstanding support for cancer patients and their families," he said to The Eastern Eye newspaper.
The awards offer various Knighthood titles, including Officer of the British Empire, Member of the Order of the British Empire, and Medallist of the Order of the British Empire, which many South Asians received. This year, there appeared to be more of a commitment to a gender balance. Women made up 48% of the honourees.
Businesswomen Kala Patel, who runs Kiddycare Nurseries across the United Kingdom, found the ceremony to be a huge moment. “It is really wonderful to be recognised for all the work I’ve done over the years with the children. This honour is about that commitment and I’m blown away by it. But I have to say, none of this could have happened without the support of my tremendously dedicated team, who always give their all. When I came to this country at a young age, I had no plans for the future, but I have been able, I hope, to make a real difference to the lives of others, particularly families with young children. Getting this recognition from the Queen feels like a really great achievement. I feel genuinely honoured," she told The Eastern Eye.
Other honourees included business leaders like Dr. Rami Ranger, who runs Sun Mark, which has made history by winning the Queen's Awards for Enterprise in International Trade five years in a row.
The OBEs are a great feat for all these South Asian entrepreneurs and community leaders. Kudos to them for winning such a prestigious honour for all their hard work and public service!
Main Image Photo Credit: Asian Voice
Rumnique Nannar
Author
Rumnique Nannar is a new journalist with a passion for all things pop culture, film, and art. Rumnique was born in London, with a predilection for devouring English chocolate with her Vogue, ANOKHI, and Glamour magazines in tow. She is currently in her Journalism Masters at UBC. Connect ...
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