Emma Slade, also known as Ani Pema Deki, was today presented with a Point of Light Award from Theresa May, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, in recognition of her work supporting children in Bhutan.
The award was presented by Michael Rutland, the UK's High Consul of Bhutan and the Bhutanesse Foreign Minister, Damcho Dorji.
The Point of Light Awards were launched by then president George Bush in 1990 to recognise volunteers in the United States and later adopted in the UK from 2014. Emma is one of nine volunteers to be awarded the prize this year.
Presenting her with her award, Michael Rutland said "there are point's of light in a sometime's dark world and Emma is one such light. She combines her style and experience in the world of international finance with the attributes of a Buddhist nun to bring to her charity enormous energy, dedication and sensitivity. Her work is making a real difference to lives of many children in the remote Kingdom of Bhutan, and provides a unique example of the power of volunteerism to have a positive effect on the lives of others".
Ani Pema Deki said that the award means a great deal to her and everyone who helps with her charity. “This award will fill them with even more determination to do their very best.”
She said that the sacred sounds of the great mantra of compassion that she heard many years ago touched her and the sounds made her to wish to become a kinder person and a person who has the strength to help many other beings. “I believe this mantra is helping me everyday.”
At the presentation Emma presented the Drak-tsko school in Tashigang with a new 4x4 to help access remote families.
