Sikhs recognised by the Queen in the Birthday Honours List 2020

Numerous Sikhs and people of Sikh heritage have been honoured by the Queen today in the delayed Birthday Honours List of 2020. The publication of the list was delayed so that people who have gone above and beyond in their work during the pandemic could also be recognised. From scientists and teachers through to the world of healthcare and retail, the Sikh community has received recognition for its dedication to the service of others.

Amongst the notable individuals is Professor Yadvinder Singh Malhi, a renowned ecosystem scientist based at the University of Oxford whose extensive research has looked at the impact of global atmospheric change on the ecology, structure and composition of terrestrial ecosystems. He receives a CBE for his work in this field. Professor Malhi said

I am very surprised and humbled to receive this Honour. I am particularly pleased that it is ‘for services to ecosystem science’, and I hope it brings some more recognition to the vital importance of intact and restored ecosystems to our future. As a member of Britain’s Sikh community, I hope it shows what important role our community can play in engaging with these fundamental issues, both in the UK and internationally, around the sustainability of our impact on the planet.

Manjit Kaur Gill is a respected campaigner and activist who set up the charity Binti to provide menstrual dignity to women all over the world. The charity has volunteers in 12 countries around the world and they have helped tens of thousands of people over the last 6 years. She receives an MBE for her inspirational leadership. Manjit said:

My work has been honest and challenging and I am fuelled by the fire that there is hope in humanity. When I found out I was being included in Her Majesty’s birthday honours, I felt that we were a step closer to our dream to create a world where all women have menstrual dignity. In the 6 years that Binti has been running, we have taken the period revolution to Her Majesty who has in turn, generously recognised our work with one of the highest honours.

Another recipient is Rajinder Singh, also known as the Skipping Sikh. During lockdown, Rajinder decided to share videos online of his skipping fitness routines and inspire others to keep active with him. His exercise videos went viral, and he helped to create a positive attitude for many within the Sikh community. He also managed to raise over £12,000 for the NHS through his efforts. He receives an MBE. When asked about his honour, Rajinder said:

I am truly honoured and humbled to receive it. I feel I am not someone who deserves this honour as I am a selfless sewadar who just wants to give back. I am the son of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and a key principle of my faith is to serve others, so I feel this is my duty and will continue to be until my last breath.

Also receiving an MBE is Rani Kaur, who is a Food Services Assistant at Sainsbury’s and who has been awarded for her services to the community in Bedfordshire during Covid-19. She has been pivotal in obtaining donations of food and groceries from Sainsbury’s for a project providing supplies to vulnerable people which has been run by the local Sikh and Ravidassia communities.

Source: Sikhs recognised by the Queen in the Birthday Honours List 2020 | City Sikhs