The King’s Birthday Honours List for this year has celebrated a total of 1,215 recipients, who have been recognised for their exceptional achievements, with a special focus on those who have given their time to public service.
From community advocates to cultural figures, these individuals have made significant contributions to various sectors, especially in communities that need support the most.
Overview of the Honours List
The Birthday Honours List is a recognition of those who have shown extraordinary dedication and commitment to their communities. This year, the awards highlight individuals from diverse fields, including community service, sports, the arts, health, and youth support.
A notable feature of this year’s honours is the contribution of individuals from Wales, which makes up 6% of the total recipients. The recognition of these individuals reflects their ongoing efforts to improve lives and inspire others.
Key Statements from Leaders
Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his congratulations to all the recipients, praising their hard work and dedication. He mentioned that the honours are a powerful reminder of the compassion and commitment that exists across the country. He highlighted that the recipients embody the very best of Britain and commended them for their exceptional service.
Jo Stevens, the Secretary of State for Wales, also congratulated the Welsh recipients. She thanked them for their unwavering passion, noting that their work has had a profound impact on their communities.
She especially recognised their contributions in supporting vulnerable people, advancing the arts, increasing access to sports, and improving lives in many ways.
How to Nominate Someone for an Honour
The public can nominate anyone they feel deserves recognition. If you know someone who has made extraordinary contributions and achieved great things, you can nominate them by visiting Gov.uk Honours to find out more about the process.
Notable Welsh Recipients
Several inspiring individuals from Wales were awarded for their outstanding contributions. Among them are:
- Oliver Sykes: Awarded an MBE for his efforts in increasing access to the arts for underprivileged young people. Through his leadership in the Stories for Care programme, he has empowered over 5,000 young people from low-income backgrounds by giving them access to literary works that would not normally be available to them.
- Muriel Morgan: Also awarded an MBE for her 50-year career in the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS). At the age of 88, she recently retired after coordinating volunteer drivers who assisted elderly and vulnerable people in attending medical appointments. During the pandemic, she worked tirelessly to ensure the service continued to operate, even in difficult times.
- Modupeola Obilanade: Awarded an MBE for her work in the community of Newport. She has transformed the St Pauls Clinic into a beacon of hope, leading several health initiatives focused on preventative care and chronic pain management. In addition, she continues her charity work by providing free medical consultations to those most in need.
The King’s Birthday Honours List is an inspiring reminder of the incredible work being done by individuals across the UK, particularly in Wales. From arts and culture to healthcare and community service, these recipients have demonstrated extraordinary commitment and passion to improving the lives of others.
Their work serves as a powerful inspiration for future generations, and their dedication to service showcases the best of British values. Their achievements are a testament to the power of giving back to the community and making a lasting, positive impact.
