Kay Williams, Bees Abroad trustee, has been recognised in the New Year’s Honours list 2024. Kay is being awarded the honour of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to the international environment and charitable services to Bees Abroad.   

Christine Ratcliffe, Communications and Fundraising Manager at Bees Abroad, spoke to Kay about her achievement: 

First of all, congratulations on being awarded an MBE, Kay!   

Q: Being recognised with an MBE is a tremendous achievement. Could you share your personal reflections on this award?
A: This award recognises not only my efforts but also those from many different sectors and stakeholder groups working hard internationally to protect our shared global environment from the harm caused by pollution especially chemicals and waste.  These efforts complement Bees Abroad which works to enable communities to empower themselves through sustainable beekeeping.  Without a pollution free environment, bees do not thrive. 

 Q: This award recognises your lifetime of work to date. Can you share a personal reflection on the journey that led you to become involved with Bees Abroad? 
A: I first became involved in beekeeping around six years ago when I decided that I needed a hobby.  As social insects, bees are endlessly fascinating, and I trained with my local Beekeeping Association (the CBKA) to learn how to keep them.  Having always had an interest in international development, I admired the ethos and values of Bees Abroad and wanted to combine my passions.   

 Q: You’ve been working with Bees Abroad for three years. Can you highlight one or two key milestones or projects that you are particularly proud of during that time?
A: I am particularly proud of how Bees Abroad has evolved over the last few years.  Under the leadership of Richard Ridler, the Chair of the trustees, the charity has truly become a professional player having revamped its processes, rebranded its image, hired a CEO and become a 21st century charity whilst making sure that nearly all donations are still spent overseas. 

Q: Reflecting on your experiences with Bees Abroad, what valuable lessons have you learned that you would like to share?
A: If you become involved in a small charity then be prepared to turn your hand to anything and everything! 

Q: Having accomplished this recognition of your work to date, what’s next on the horizon for you and your work with Bees Abroad? 
A: I would like to continue to work with Bees Abroad in increasing its profile, support its work on the ground, particularly with women, and help the charity on its journey to be the international experts on beekeeping for communities overseas. 

Q: Is there anything else you would like to share: insights, reflections, hopes for the future as we enter a new year?
A:  Aim high, work hard and have fun. 

Thank you, Kay, for sharing your insights and congratulations once again on this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to your continued contributions to our work.