Story: John Mellor
Every year the High Sheriff of South Yorkshire holds an awards ceremony to honour individuals and organisations that have made a significant contribution to their communities. The High Sheriff is the Queen's representative in the County and holds office for one year.
In her introduction to the award ceremony held early in March, the current High Sheriff, Mrs Julie Ann Kenny CBE DL, writes:
“Throughout my year as High Sheriff, I have met some truly inspiring people who, against the odds, have endeavoured to enrich the lives of others and give of their time selflessly in the pursuit of offering those less fortunate than themselves a better life”.
One person whose work has been highly commended and was awarded a certificate signed by the High Sheriff is Burngreave resident, Victor Mujakachi. He has been honoured particularly for his voluntary work with ASSIST and the Archer Project, Sheffield charities which work in helping asylum seekers and homeless people.
The citation about Victor says:
“Victor is Highly Commended in the category of Unsung Hero in recognition and appreciation of valuable and devoted service in the community. He has volunteered tirelessly for several organisations in the city working to tackle destitution. He is a key member of ASSIST, a charity that supports destitute asylum seekers in Sheffield; he volunteers for the 6-9 Club run by the Archer Project to give homeless people somewhere to go in the evenings; and also at the Sunday Centre providing meals to homeless and destitute people, and at Football Unites Racism Divides, amongst other organisations.”
In Burngreave, Victor is actively involved in running a night shelter for asylum seekers and giving valuable help at St Peter's, Ellesmere.
Commenting on his award, Victor told the Messenger:
“I would like to thank various people I work with who have submitted my name for the award. It is them, more than I, who recognise the things I do, as, for me, it is business as usual. I do what I do because, for me, it's just normal and nothing special.”
Clearly Victor richly deserves this prestigious award and the Messenger is sure that readers will wish to add their congratulations.