A prominent human rights advocate has been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours List for her exceptional contributions to humanitarian work, refugee support, and promoting equality. Mandy Sanghera, a Warwickshire-based philanthropist and global activist, has been awarded an OBE for her tireless efforts spanning decades.
With a career of over 30 years, Sanghera has been a driving force in aiding refugees and migrants across the UK and internationally. She played a significant role in rescuing more than 400 Afghans following the Taliban offensive in 2021 and was instrumental in the evacuation of British nationals from Lebanon amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Her work has also extended to resettling British nationals from Hong Kong, where her collaboration with the Home Office and local authorities has facilitated a smoother transition for many seeking a fresh start.
Reflecting on her recognition, Sanghera shared her thoughts on the honour: “I feel incredibly grateful to receive an OBE. This award is not just about me – it represents the collective efforts of so many who have supported and believed in this mission. I want to dedicate this recognition to my colleagues and clients, as I wouldn’t be able to do this without their unwavering support.”
Sanghera’s influence goes beyond crisis management. As a global advocate against human trafficking, she has addressed major platforms, including the United Nations and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe. She has delivered keynote speeches in the House of Representatives on issues ranging from violence against women to safeguarding refugee rights. Her longstanding commitment to tackling harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and honour-based violence has made her a revered voice in safeguarding initiatives.
Acknowledging the challenges of her work, Sanghera said: “It can be very difficult at times, particularly when dealing with traumatic cases or systemic obstacles. But knowing that we are saving lives and empowering others makes it all incredibly rewarding. The impact we make is what drives me forward, even in the face of adversity.”
In 2018, Sanghera was a featured speaker at the inaugural International Conference on Psychology, Counselling and Education (ICPCE) hosted by Psychreg and New Era University in Quezon City, Philippines. Her presence underscored her dedication to fostering dialogue and collaboration in addressing global issues.
Her advocacy is also reflected in her engagement with emerging technologies. She has been an outspoken critic of unconscious bias in artificial intelligence, delivering talks at prominent tech conferences like CogX and Women of Silicon Valley. Additionally, her leadership in organising global hackathons has inspired youth from over 100 countries to explore AI solutions for social good.
Speaking about her broader vision, Sanghera remarked: “Empowering others isn’t just about offering immediate support. It’s about creating pathways for long-term transformation. I have had the privilege of mentoring countless individuals, helping them rebuild their lives and discover their true potential. Witnessing this growth is one of the greatest rewards of my work.”
Her remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed. This year, the New York Bar Association honoured Sanghera for her efforts to support women refugees and trafficking victims. Her passion for empowering the next generation has seen her mentor countless individuals, encouraging them to rebuild their lives and realise their potential.
A champion of inclusivity, Sanghera has partnered with universities and organisations to deliver training on safeguarding, cultural competency, and the complexities of forced marriages. Her work has directly impacted policymaking within the European Parliament, with a focus on eradicating harmful cultural practices. “This award is a reminder of how far we’ve come,” Sanghera concluded, “but it also highlights how much work remains to be done. Together, we can continue to build a more inclusive and compassionate world.”
