A University of Worcester graduate is set to receive her second accolade of the year after her organisation was recognised for an award from the King.

Kiran Sahota, an award-winning social historian and charity worker, has received the King's Award for Voluntary Service, which is the highest accolade given to volunteer groups across the UK.

Ms Sahota, who received an honorary degree from the university in September, founded the community interest company, Believe in Me, which educates and empowers women and young people from marginalised communities.

"I am beyond words with the award,” she said.

 

 

Read more: Worcester University students encounter dramatic Westminster reshuffle

<hr>

“I never thought when I started my research in history back in 2015, that it would lead to this recognition.

"Indian women have long been overlooked from the military narratives and I have always ensured that they will be remembered.

"A massive thank you to all our volunteers who work on the projects and share the research we uncover.”

Ms Sahota's journey began in 2006 when she graduated from the the university, majoring in English Literature and American Studies.

Over the past decade, she has curated three national exhibitions which detail stories of how Indian men and women contributed towards efforts in both the First and Second World War.

BBC Women's Hour, along with the House of Lords and House of Commons, have featured these exhibits in their broadcasts.

In addition to managing nationwide operations, Ms Sahota also finds time to be a guest lecturer at various universities across the UK.

In 2021, she received the Points of Light Award from the Prime Minister in recognition of her research on South Asian history, and served as an Olympic Torchbearer in 2012 following her education and charity work.

Additionally, in 2022, she was selected as torchbearer for the Commonwealth Games.