Queen's Award honour for Rotherham Ethnic Minority Alliance

Inequality-fighting Rotherham Ethnic Minority Alliance has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Chief executive Azizzum Akhtar said: “This represents a tremendous achievement for all REMA volunteers, past and present, who have dedicated countless hours to promote our objectives and supported their local communities. 

“We hope that everyone involved, and especially all our volunteers, feel immensely proud of the recognition that this award represents.

REMA will receive a certificate signed by The Queen and an exclusive commemorative crystal, to be presented by Her Majesty’s representative in South Yorkshire, Lord Lieutenant Mr Andrew Coombe.

REMA was set up in 2001 as a group aimed at addressing inequalities faced by people from black and minority ethnic communities in Rotherham. 

It delivers support to minority voluntary groups and provides a range of services including advice services, English classes, refugee support and a voice on hate crime. 

Its Love is Louder initiative is the driving force behind the annual Festival of Angels and thousands of people have taken part in its events and workshops.