Our Chair Neelam Devesher DL Awarded MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List

We’re thrilled to announce that our founding member and Chair, Neelam Devesher DL, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in His Majesty the King’s Birthday Honours List.

This national honour recognises Neelam’s outstanding contribution to charity and her tireless work within the community here in Surrey. It is a proud moment for all of us at Surrey Minority Ethnic Forum (SMEF) — and a well-deserved tribute to a woman whose leadership has helped shape and strengthen our mission from the very beginning.

Neelam has dedicated many years to championing inclusion, equity, and opportunity for minority ethnic communities. Under her guidance, SMEF has grown into a trusted and respected voice advocating for fairness and connection in our increasingly diverse county.

Speaking on the award, Neelam said:

“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition. It is shared with the incredible partners, organisations, and communities I have had the privilege to work alongside through the Surrey Minority Ethnic Forum. Together, we have championed inclusion, equity, and opportunity for Surrey’s diverse communities.

As someone whose family made a new life in this country, I carry a deep personal commitment to fairness, inclusion, equity and community. As Chair of the Surrey Minority Ethnic Forum, I have had the privilege of working with inspiring individuals and organisations dedicated to building a more compassionate and just society.

This honour is a reflection of our collective efforts to create a fairer and more connected Surrey — and a reminder of how much more we can achieve together.”

We couldn’t be more proud. On behalf of the entire SMEF family — staff, trustees, member groups, ambassadors, volunteers, and community members — we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Neelam for this incredible and well-earned recognition.

Congratulations, Neelam — and thank you for your leadership and service!

To view the full King's Birthday Honours List, including Neelam’s MBE, please visit the official announcement on GOV.UK: The King’s Birthday Honours List 2025