Guyanese volunteer wins Commonwealth Point of Light award
Guyanese volunteer Denise Dias has been recognised by Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom as the recipient of the Commonwealth Point of Light award.
This is in light of the extraordinary voluntary work that she has done in campaigning for better road safety regulations after the death of her daughter Alicea Dias.
Having received the award, Dias noted that she is shocked and “so honoured”. “Even though I haven’t got Alicea in my life now, she continues to save so many lives across Guyana,” Dias expressed.
The British High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn, has since said that Denise Dias has been a tireless campaigner on road safety. “I have been humbled by her work, especially given the tragic circumstances surrounding it. She is, without question, a very deserving recipient of a Points of Light award, and it is an honour for me to have the opportunity to congratulate her on this occasion,” he said.
British High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn, presenting a copy of the award to Denise Dias
The foundation, Alicea Foundation, was established in 1997 following the death of Denise’s 17-year-old daughter Alicea, who was involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver in 1996. The foundation organises a weekly one-hour vigil outside the Parliament Buildings. For four years, grieving mothers and supporters, dressed in black and carrying pictures of their lost ones, have participated in the vigil. Eventually, road safety legislation was passed. The amendment in 2002 saw the enforcement of the use of helmets, seat belts, breathalyzers and radar guns.
Her Majesty is thanking those persons from the 53 Commonwealth nations who have made exceptional and inspirational volunteer work in their communities and beyond. The heads of government of these nations will meet to celebrate the volunteering works and inspire others to contribute towards the social challenges of today. The Points of Light award recognises outstanding volunteers every day of the week, and is given to persons who volunteer their time and service towards making a difference in their communities. The official award for Denise Dias will be presented on April 14 at Pakuri Village, during a Commonwealth Big Lunch hosted by High Commissioner Greg Quinn.
