PP GIRIJA MENON BESTOWED THE PRESTIGIOUS MARGARETTE GOLDING AWARD
District 330
8 August 2021
On 30th June 2021, District 330 was proud to receive the Margarette Golding Award (MGA) certificate to be bestowed upon Past President Girija Menon of IWC of Petaling Jaya. This Award is indeed a most befitting recognition for PP Girija’s commendable service to early intervention and education of children with learning challenges. The award has been available since September 2001 and over 200 people have now received it worldwide. District 330 is pleased that PP Girija is the fourth recipient in the Districts of 330 and 331.
National Representative Ambika Menon arranged a presentation ceremony on 8th August 2021 at PP Girija’s residence, where all standard operating procedures were adhered to, to ensure a safe presentation. The bright and sunny day seemed to be in tandem with the jubilant mood of the selected guests who attended the auspicious ceremony. The event was recorded via video conferencing so that family members could bear witness to a ceremony which would have been arranged in true grandeur if not for the pandemic restrictions.
NR Ambika spoke briefly about the MGA, followed by IPDC Shanti reading the citation. It was during IPDC Shanti’s tenure that the nomination was sent and the wonderful news of the award announced.
The atmosphere was truly euphoric as NR Ambika presented the certificate to PP Girija, while IPP Alamelu of IWC Petaling Jaya, who was responsible for submitting PP Girija’s name for the nomination, had the distinct honour of pinning the MGA brooch on PP Girija.
In accepting the award, PP Girija thanked IPP Alamelu, members of IWC PJ, IPDC Shanti and Past NR Alice Lau, for their effort and resolve that culminated in the successful award to her. She said that she has been working with children with disabilities since the 1980s and although she has done this with no expectations of reward, the MGA is something that is going to motivate her to continue to dedicate her time and commitment to these children.
On behalf of all the members, District 330 congratulates PP Girija and applauds her for this well-deserved recognition, her generosity and outstanding dedication to a most deserving cause.
~ Padmini Pillai, District Editor