Community leaders honoured with Freedom of the City
Our highest civic honour has been conferred on 2 individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the life of the city.
At a Special Council meeting on Thursday 18 December, councillors agreed to award the title of Honorary Freewoman of the City to Emily Kenward, founder of Time to Talk Befriending, and Honorary Freeman of the City to Mesfin Abraham Ghebre-Ghiorghis, former Corporate Director and Chief Legal Adviser at the council.
The Freedom of the City Award is the most prestigious honour the council can bestow. It recognises exceptional service or achievement that has made a significant and lasting impact on Brighton & Hove and its people.
Support for thousands of older people
Emily Kenward has transformed the lives of thousands of older people experiencing loneliness and isolation.
Since establishing Time to Talk Befriending in 2013, Emily and her team of staff and volunteers have supported more than 3,500 people across Brighton, Hove, Adur and Worthing, offering befriending, access to regular social events and vital emotional support.
Emily Kenward said: “Receiving this award is a profound honour. This city has shaped my life and my work, and this recognition belongs to the many people who give their time, kindness and compassion to one another every day.
“I hope it shines a light on the power of connection, the value of older people in our community, and what can grow when we step out in faith and walk alongside one another.”
Unwavering commitment to race equality and democracy
Mesfin Abraham Ghebre-Ghiorghis, known to many as Abraham, served Brighton & Hove for 37 years as a council officer and is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to race equality and local democracy.
Mesfin Abraham Ghebre-Ghiorghis said: “I am deeply honoured to be admitted as a freeman of the city I love. Although it is meant to recognise my contribution, to me, it is much more important than that. It confirms Brighton & Hove’s position as a city of hope, liberty, equality and compassion; a city that welcomed people like me and treated them as its own. I hope that this beacon of hope continues to shine for generations to come.”
Councillor Bella Sankey, Mesfin Abraham Ghebre-Ghiorghis, Emily Kenward and Councillor Amanda Grimshaw BEM, the Mayor of Brighton & Hove
The very best of Brighton & Hove
Councillor Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, said: “Emily and Abraham embody the very best of Brighton & Hove.
“Emily’s tireless work to combat loneliness has brought dignity to thousands of otherwise isolated residents.
“Abraham’s remarkable journey from seeking asylum to becoming the beating heart of our civic life represents everything our city stands for – equality, justice and sanctuary.
“It is a privilege to recognise both of their extraordinary contributions with the Freedom of the City.”
Emily and Abraham are the first nominees to be considered under the new policy, following a review by political group leaders of all submissions received by the October deadline.