Carmen Wiltshire
Nominee Profile
Location: Surrey
Carmen Wiltshire, an exceptional 84-year-old Windrush Pioneer, embodies remarkable determination, humility, passion, and selflessness as a humanitarian impacting lives globally for over 60 years.
Upon receiving the invitation from Britain for Commonwealth countries to come and assist in rebuilding the war-torn Mother Country, she resolved to come and help in any way she could. Arriving in the UK from Jamaica, West Indies at 21 on January 1, 1962, Carmen vowed to create a better life for herself, future family, and make a difference in the lives of others.
In the late 60s, Carmen devoted herself to serving her local community in Wandsworth, London. In 1972, as a wife, mother of two and a licensed Minister, she galvanised support to extend hope, food, and refuge to individuals experiencing homelessness, making a substantial impact on their mental health. At times, even welcoming them to live with her family until they could regain their independence.
Carmen's academic journey reflects her strong commitment to personal growth and her passion for helping others. With a Master's degree and three additional degrees, she has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to expanding her knowledge and expertise. Additionally, her completion of a PGCE shows her commitment to education and her willingness to contribute to the development of others. Carmen's educational achievements are a testament to her drive and determination to make a positive impact in the lives of those around her.
She has mentored numerous individuals across generations, with many of them ascending to prominent and respected positions within British society.
Even after retiring at 62, and the premature loss of her one son, Carmen's dedication to serve remained unwavering as she continued her service within the Ministry of Justice.
At 69, she established the Karoy Foundation, leading multi-faceted sustainable aid projects across Ghana, Jamaica, and the UK. Her initiatives include a school for adults in Tooting, UK, offering courses in key skills, building a school in Ghana; building five clean water borehole projects, providing breakfast for underprivileged children in a Jamaican school; and organising sponsored walks, cake sales, galas and concerts to raise funds for her charity’s objectives. All this with her selfless husband Roy by her side, who has also been pivotal to these national and international successes.
Carmen overcame racism, loss, hostility, and adversity without letting those challenges cloud her ability to see the goodness in others or leave a permanent mark on her heart. Through their strong faith and personal convictions, both Carmen and Roy made a resolve to appreciate and love people for who they are, continually showing compassion and forgiveness whenever the chance arises.
Now 84, Carmen remains steadfast in her dedication to "tilting the world in favour of the poor," inspired by Bob Geldof, and she continues to serve. She inspires generations to come.
Upon receiving the invitation from Britain for Commonwealth countries to come and assist in rebuilding the war-torn Mother Country, she resolved to come and help in any way she could. Arriving in the UK from Jamaica, West Indies at 21 on January 1, 1962, Carmen vowed to create a better life for herself, future family, and make a difference in the lives of others.
In the late 60s, Carmen devoted herself to serving her local community in Wandsworth, London. In 1972, as a wife, mother of two and a licensed Minister, she galvanised support to extend hope, food, and refuge to individuals experiencing homelessness, making a substantial impact on their mental health. At times, even welcoming them to live with her family until they could regain their independence.
Carmen's academic journey reflects her strong commitment to personal growth and her passion for helping others. With a Master's degree and three additional degrees, she has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to expanding her knowledge and expertise. Additionally, her completion of a PGCE shows her commitment to education and her willingness to contribute to the development of others. Carmen's educational achievements are a testament to her drive and determination to make a positive impact in the lives of those around her.
She has mentored numerous individuals across generations, with many of them ascending to prominent and respected positions within British society.
Even after retiring at 62, and the premature loss of her one son, Carmen's dedication to serve remained unwavering as she continued her service within the Ministry of Justice.
At 69, she established the Karoy Foundation, leading multi-faceted sustainable aid projects across Ghana, Jamaica, and the UK. Her initiatives include a school for adults in Tooting, UK, offering courses in key skills, building a school in Ghana; building five clean water borehole projects, providing breakfast for underprivileged children in a Jamaican school; and organising sponsored walks, cake sales, galas and concerts to raise funds for her charity’s objectives. All this with her selfless husband Roy by her side, who has also been pivotal to these national and international successes.
Carmen overcame racism, loss, hostility, and adversity without letting those challenges cloud her ability to see the goodness in others or leave a permanent mark on her heart. Through their strong faith and personal convictions, both Carmen and Roy made a resolve to appreciate and love people for who they are, continually showing compassion and forgiveness whenever the chance arises.
Now 84, Carmen remains steadfast in her dedication to "tilting the world in favour of the poor," inspired by Bob Geldof, and she continues to serve. She inspires generations to come.