SWANSEA: The peace project started here after 9/11 has won its founder an international award

A Swansea peace campaigner whose work reaches schools and communities well beyond Wales has been given an international award at the city’s Guildhall.

Pam Evans MBE, founder and director of Peace Mala, received a Leadership and Excellence Award at a ceremony on Friday 14 August.

It was presented jointly by Cllr Andrea Harrington, whom Swansea Council describes as its deputy leader and Peace Mala champion, and Mubarak Ali on behalf of Live Awareness for National Development, a Pakistan-based organisation known as LAND.

Peace Mala was set up by Pam in Wales in 2001. It promotes friendship, respect and understanding between people of different faiths, cultures and backgrounds, and its educational work encourages global citizenship while challenging prejudice.

The organisation was developed as concerns grew about racism, intolerance and division in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks in the United States.

It has since picked up national and international recognition for its work on interfaith harmony and peace education.

Cllr Harrington said Pam’s vision had reached schools, communities and organisations, encouraging people of different faiths and backgrounds to recognise what unites them.

“Through education, dialogue and unwavering commitment, she has inspired thousands of people to reject prejudice, celebrate diversity, and embrace the universal values of respect, friendship and compassion,” she said.

She added: “In an age when conflict, misunderstanding and intolerance continue to challenge societies across the world, her work shines as a beacon of hope.”

Mr Ali said LAND had been honoured to present the award, recognising what he called Pam’s outstanding leadership and her contribution to peace, interfaith harmony and mutual respect.

“Through Peace Mala, Pam has created a lasting legacy that has inspired individuals and communities across different cultures and faiths,” he said.

Receiving the award, Pam thanked the people who have supported the organisation over the years, and singled out the Lord Mayor, Cllr Penny Matthews, for hosting the ceremony in her reception room at the Guildhall.

She said Cllr Harrington and council leader Cllr Rob Stewart had been of immense support behind the scenes, and thanked the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of West Glamorgan, Commander Jill E Johnson, and the High Sheriff of Glamorgan, Emrys Elias OBE, for attending.

“So many people have contributed to Peace Mala’s journey over the last 24 years,” she said.

“May we all continue to work together for greater peace between our diverse communities and for a more compassionate and just world.”