THE annual Queen’s Birthday Honours 2022 bring with them an added fervour since this year also marks the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II’s 70 years in service. To give the 96-year-old monarch a tribute, noted personalities from various walks of the society have been chosen to be awarded for their outstanding contributions, particularly for a sustained public service.
More than 40 professionals of Indian descent have made it to the list and among them is Shivani Lakhani, Society Team Lead, Covid-19 Taskforce, Cabinet Office. She has been honoured with the OBE for her services to vulnerable communities during the Covid-19 response.
Speaking over her achievement, to Eastern Eye, Lakhani said, “I feel extremely honoured to have been awarded an OBE as part of the birthday Honours’ list. Over the past two+ years, I have been a part of, and led, a brilliant team in the Cabinet Office who have worked tirelessly to represent vulnerable, marginalised and underrepresented communities – those who have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic.
“We have done our best to give these communities a voice in government, using data and evidence to highlight how they have been impacted by the pandemic and instigating change in government policy to improve, and save, lives. I am incredibly proud of what we have all achieved.”
Sharing the honour with her team, she said it was not just about her but went to some of the brightest, most dedicated and compassionate people she has ever worked with.
“The absolute dream team, I feel privileged to have worked alongside them,” Lakhani added.
“It’s to highlight what the Civil Service achieves behind closed doors and to shine a light on its brilliance. And most importantly, it’s to show that regardless of your age or background, change is possible. Dream big and surround yourself with people who encourage you to do that,” she said.
