Founder and director of Refuge for the Refugees (RFTR) Heidy Quah has been recognised by Queen Elizabeth II as an exceptional young person for her work in supporting refugees in Malaysia.
The Queen’s Young Leaders Award celebrates exceptional people aged 18-29 from across the Commonwealth, who are taking the lead in their communities and using their skills to transform lives. Winners of this prestigious award will receive a unique package of training, mentoring and networking, including a 1-week residential programme in the UK during which they will collect their award from Her Majesty The Queen.
In September 2012, Heidy established RFTR, an NGO which aims to help raise awareness about the state of refugees and provide aid to refugee schools in terms of education and sustenance. At that time, Heidy was barely 18 years old.
According to the RFTR Facebook page, “Refuge for the Refugees (RFTR) started off as a project in June 2012 with a simple wish – to help a certain refugee school stay open. Refuge for the Refugees (RFTR) is a Non-Governmental Organization started by a bunch of 18 year olds passionate about living life to the fullest and making every single day count by putting others before ourselves, placing their needs before our own, touching lives and making a difference wherever we are, however we can and whenever we can.”
In a statement issued by the programme coordinators today, Heidy said she was delighted to have been chosen for the award. “I hope to expand my role as a youth advocate and spokeswoman for refugees,” she added.
The 23-year-old will be representing Malaysia in the UK as she receives her award from the monarch at a ceremony at Buckingham Palace in London on 15th June 2017, Thursday (UK time). She will be among 60 outstanding young leaders from Commonwealth countries whom will receive the award.
So inspiring! Much love and congratulations, Heidy. You’ve made Malaysia so proud.
#MalaysiaBoleh 🙂
Sources: FMT, NST, The Queen’s Young Leaders / Featured image: Heidy Quah’s Instagram.
