Congratulations to Emily Ketchin, outright winner of #SHEINSPIRES 2019.
Hailed as “the voice of Harpenden” and someone who works tirelessly to improve the train service for our town’s commuters, Emily received six separate nominations and nearly 60% of the votes, making her the most inspirational woman in Harpenden this year.
Sarah Jenkins-Greig nominated Emily for her exceptional dedication, advocacy and tireless work to improve the Harpenden train service in response to timetable cuts, changes and appalling service.
She was also nominated by Rebekah Ingall who said: “Emily is amazing - she has done more on the train fiasco than everyone else in Harpenden combined!”.
Jo Cumbo said: “Emily has been an absolute warrior for the town, fighting our corner on national television, at council meetings and in parliament. She is a true Harpenden hero!”
Leo Ketchin applauds her “persistent determination” and Anna Webb supported her nomination saying “Emily really deserves this.”
Victoria Seabrooke voiced her gratitude: “Thank you for all your work and campaigning for the long suffering Thameslink commuters!”
Emily was thrilled to hear the news and gratified at the tremendous support for her efforts: “I find the time to fight for the train service because it is important to us all.”
More amazing nominees
Also recognised for their fantastic contributions are:
Esther Hathorn, nominated by me, because she nurtures her large family, has made an amazing success of her business Visage Dental Spa, runs the Manland School HSA Fundraising Ideas, dances like a demon and still has time to talk to you in a really caring and helpful way with the biggest-ever smile on her face. What an inspiration!
Judy Fryd CBE, nominated by Carol Watts: “Judy's obituary says it all. A selfless lady who was the founder of MENCAP.”
Kim Brougham, Reception teaching assistant at Manland Primary School, nominated by Rania Aidley: “Ms Brougham is an amazing woman. She gives the children the best start and also supports parents. She is consistently caring, warm and cheerful - a real treasure.” This nomination was supported by Amanda O’Gorman who said: “I will never forget the support Ms Brougham gave our family during a really difficult time. Our two adore her and were once overheard saying that they thought she was the secret, real life, queen of the fairies .... She is an exceptional person. Warm, caring and professional. Every school, parent and child needs a Ms Brougham. A treasure indeed.” Paula Skilton said: “Ms Brougham is an absolute angel! I've had the pleasure of working with her, as well as my daughter being at Manland school. Even as my daughter starts her journey to leave for secondary school, Ms Brougham is still there with a kind word of support, a lady with a true heart of gold!”. Lara Wares said: “I’d love to see Ms Brougham recognised, she’s so caring, kind and empathetic. She made such a difference to my highly anxious son when he started school. We’ve always said she has magic powers with children!”. Fahima Begum said: “I will never forget how she supported us through the years and she is so loveable and great. My kids really love her and she is so brilliant.”
Mary Maynard, nominated by Caroline Bailey-Pearce for the second year running: “The hardest working local councillor our town has - and also my friend for 17 years.”
Thank you
#SHEINSPIRES is an initiative run by pennybird and camera during international Women’s Month to recognise Harpenden women in our midst who inspire others.
It’s vital to stop and appreciate the people around us and to say thank you in some way for their efforts, even if it’s a virtual hug. These shining people - with their strength of spirit - spur us on to make a greater difference in our own lives. Thank you to everyone who took the time to make a nomination and to all those who voted.
The prize
Emily wins a photo shoot to document the work she is doing to improve the train service.
An evening of inspiration - date for your diary
You are invited to come and raise a glass to these wonderful women and recognise their amazing achievements.
Thursday 6 June 2019 @ 8pm, Park Café Rothamsted Park, 23a Leyton Road, Harpenden, AL5 2FH
Everyone is welcome - prints of the photographs illustrating Emily’s endeavours will be exhibited. Cash bar available.