The event in Downing Street was hosted by Prime Minister David Cameron and Secretary of State for International Development Justine Greening. Nicola was nominated for her hard work and contributions as a legal adviser, as well as her great leadership abilities.
“I did not know what to expect ahead of the evening, but as soon as we arrived at the Prime Ministers office the atmosphere was very cosy and friendly. When David Cameron entered, I was one of the first guests to greet him”, says Nicola.
Prime Minister Cameron took the opportunity to express his appreciation for the important work of humanitarian workers around the world. The Prime Minister highlighted the crisis response in and around Syria, the fight against Ebola and the work that is being done for Palestinians in Gaza in his speech.
“For me it was very important that he mentioned Gaza,” Nicola says. “Sometimes it can be hard to keep on working when the change you expect never occurs, but by mentioning Gaza I felt like he signalled that the conflict is still on the map.”
The invitation to meet the Prime Minister meant a lot to Nicola:
“It is not every day you get an invitation like this. In your day-to-day life you don’t feel like the work you are doing is being noticed by authorities, but this evening reminded me that our efforts are in fact seen and appreciated. Without the work that humanitarians do, things would be worse for a lot of people”, Nicola summarises.
