A true community hero.
Bernadetta is one of 22 people to be awarded with the special plaque.
At the end of last year, Census 2021 ran a competition across England and Wales to identify 22 community heroes. These were people who went above and beyond to help make a difference to those in need, in a year that has been extremely challenging.
The competition which received hundreds of entries, awarded Bernadetta Omondi one of the purple plaques in recognition of her services to her local community here in Peterborough. A teacher by profession, Bernadetta shopped and delivered food to those in need during a time of uncertainty for many individuals and families.
Speaking about the award, Bernadetta said: "I am truly grateful to have received the Census 2021 Community Hero Award, amongst the hundreds of entries that were submitted. I am passionate and proud of my community, and it's a pleasure to do what I can and to be of service to Peterborough."
Those who have the pleasure of knowing Bernadetta, knows she is passionate in all that she does, going above and beyond in encouraging cohesion and inclusion for all. Bernadetta is also the chair of Peterborough Racial Council, chair of Black History Month and other committees including the Events Officer for Friends of Central Park.
The entries for Census 2021 were judged by a panel of noteworthy community champions, led by Gavin and Stacey actress and presenter Joanna Page. She commented: "I am honoured to have been a judge on the Census 2021 community hero awards panel. It was such a pleasure to read through all the amazing entries. In what has been a difficult year for so many of us, this was a great opportunity to say thank you to the people who go above and beyond to serve their local community."
The census, taking place on March 21, 2021, will shed light on the needs of different groups and communities, and the inequalities people are experiencing, ensuring the big decisions facing the country following the pandemic and EU exit are based on the best information possible.
Census 2021 will inform decisions nationally and locally on vital services and issues. Ultimately it ensures millions of pounds are invested in emergency services, mental health care, school places, hospital beds, houses, roads, GPs and dentists’ services - all based on the information people provide.
It is easy for people to complete the census online on any device, with help and paper questionnaires for those that need them. Households should have now received information via the post on the upcoming census and how to complete it online.
Our beloved Bernadetta with her precious Community Hero Award, which has been displayed in the Sensory Garden in Central Park.
Bernadetta who was thrilled to have received the award, stated; "See the person and not the difference, let's have meaningful social mixing. We re all learners and teachers at the same time. Let's make the difference."
Jawaid Khan, head of community resilience and integration at Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough County Council, said: "The Census is very important for the city's future development. We are most grateful for all the support being given to our community champions who are selflessly putting a lot of efforts to encourage more people to take part in the process."
"We are most honoured to have Bernadetta's effort recognised at national level and wish to add our heartfelt appreciation to her and all the community champions."
Next time you go down to the park, go to the Sensory Garden to take a look, and if you see Bernadetta on your travels, please remember to congratulate her on an incredible achievement.
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