A well-known retired Fermanagh school principal, whose “concern for the developing world has always been part of her life”, has achieved major recognition.

At a presentation at Stormont last Thursday evening, Kate Doherty from Enniskillen spoke of her ‘total shock’ and surprise on being the recipient of one of two awards for ‘Best Visionary Leadership in International Development’ given by the All Party Group on International Development.

Her name was put forward for this accolade by Joanna McVey, Past President of Soroptimist International Enniskillen on behalf of Northern Ireland Soroptimists. The citation referred to Kate’s longstanding concern for the developing world and in particular to her support for two projects in Mekelle in Tigray province in Ethiopia which has led to 10 self-financed visits there since she took early retirement from her post as Principal of the Collegiate Grammar School in 2004.

“Her Christian faith is central to her life and membership of Enniskillen Presbyterian Church, where she is Clerk of Session, means that concern for the developing world has always been part of her life,” recorded the citation, which noted that over many years she has followed the progress of missionaries serving in India and Africa and supported their work. It also highlighted her membership of Soroptimist International ‘which seeks to be a global voice for increasing access to education and leadership for women and girls.’.

Of the two projects, supported by Kate, “both of which are working with the poorest and most neglected sections of the population”, one is Operation Rescue. It is described as an indigenous faith-based NGO working with HIV/Aids orphans and street children with the following vision: to see vulnerable children cared for and empowered through a community based and holistic approach which uses the best model of a child care programme demonstrating the love of God to the poor.

The second project is Mums for Mums , an indigenous NGO, working with vulnerable young women and also elderly ladies and their vision is to see mothers and other women become self-reliant, self-sufficient and able to look after themselves and their children.

Initially, support for this project came from Enniskillen Soroptimists but through the advocacy of Sue Hogg, Regional Soroptimist President 2006 to 2007, all the Soroptimist Clubs in Northern Ireland came on board and have made it possible for the first Day Centre for the elderly to be built in Mekelle which is seen as an exemplar for the whole region.

Most recently the NI Soroptimists have made it possible for a minibus to be purchased to allow more elderly ladies to access the facilities at the centre which have transformed the lives of the elderly ladies who attend. The citation noted: “Since 2005 Kate has been an essential partner and conduit of support facilitating substantial project developments. She has built up relationships of trust with project leaders, seeking always to maintain effective community and unity of purpose despite cultural differences and diverse perspectives.” All monies received by Kate go to Ethiopia with no administration costs involved. “Her selfless and sustained personal involvement with the above named charities has helped to transform the lives of numerous women and children in Mekelle since 2005, now recognised as an exemplar in the region. Always working to the highest standards of accountability, she is trusted by donors and beneficiaries alike.” The citation concluded: “Her compelling advocacy – telling the story progressively through her own experience – has garnered on-going support from all NI Soroptimist clubs, and others; and she has always ensured that the generosity of the people of Northern Ireland is understood and appreciated by all who come in contact with her.”