A PYSHIOTHERAPIST based at Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor has received his Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) medal.
Rakesh Kumar is a clinical specialist physiotherapist at the hospital’s Hergest Unit for mental health services.
He was appointed a MBE in June for his “services to the black, Asian and minority ethnic communities”.
On Wednesday (October 16), he was “deeply humbled and honoured” to receive his MBE medal from Prince William at Windsor Castle, in what he said will “forever be a cherished memory”.
“Also, he shared his memories and his own experiences serving as a search and rescue helicopter pilot in North Wales.
“His insights and support were truly inspiring, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for improving the lives of others.
“My visit to Windsor Castle to receive the MBE award was an unforgettable experience. As I entered the castle grounds, I was struck by the grandeur and history of the place.
“The opportunity to explore the castle's special areas was a privilege, and I was captivated by the stunning architecture, ornate decorations, and rich history.
“The award ceremony itself was a momentous occasion. Walking through the grand halls and meeting other esteemed recipients was a humbling experience.
“When I was called to receive my award, I felt a mixture of pride, gratitude, and excitement. It was an honour to be recognized for my work and to receive such a prestigious award.
“As I left the castle, I carried with me a sense of accomplishment and a renewed commitment to continue my work in making a positive impact on the lives of others.”
Mr Kumar was recognised for his work in the Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) Community Learning Project.
This project recognised how the COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected people from the BAME community, including Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board patients and staff.
His initiative focused on promoting mental and physical wellbeing through exercise and swimming, which he said has been “instrumental in improving the health outcomes of BAME individuals”.
“In addition to my work with BAME communities, I have also been actively involved in supporting individuals with rare neurological conditions.
“For the past 15 years, I have led a support group for those living with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal degeneration (CBD).
“These debilitating conditions can significantly impact a person's quality of life, and the support group provides a vital space for individuals and their families to connect, share experiences, and find support.”
Mr Kumar has also been instrumental in Bangor Indians & Friends Association (BIFA), a cultural and community group that “organises activities to promote cultural, health, educational and community affairs of the South Asian people across North Wales”.
BIFA fosters friendship and understanding between South Asian people and the Welsh community and other ethnic minority communities to support humanitarian causes.
Through his role in BIFA he has organised many cultural events, such as Diwali, Eid and Holi, welcoming a mix of health board staff and members of the community to celebrate together and raise money for charity.
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