Second generation of Indian achievements

Ugandan Asian exodus

Decorum Indian Society is celebrating 50 years of Ugandan Asians settlement in Hemel Hempstead. I would like to write about my late husband and his family who also came to Hemel Hempstead for settlement. My father-in-law, Shantilal Trivedi, had a wonderful job in a Sugar cane plantation in Kakira - Uganda and was living a peaceful life in a beautiful fertile country with his family. The company had given him a bungalow and a car.

1972 Exodus

Everything changed when Idi Amin announced on the 4th August 1972, that all Asians should leave within 90 days as his impression was that Asians were milking the Uganda economy. At that time, Asians owned 90% of country’s business and accounted for 90% of tax revenues. My in laws with their children had to leave the country penniless, without any possessions and landed in the UK, to new country where they were not at all familiar with English culture and their way of life and the cold climate.

Hemel Hempstead settlement

Eventually they settled in Hemel Hempstead. I was also born in India, and from age of 6 years, I was raised in Jinja where my father was a schoolteacher. I spent the early years of my childhood in Jinja Uganda and attended a local Primary Girls School. Then I moved to India to pursue further studies in Vadodra – India. In 1976, I got married to my in-law’s son Shree Dilip Shantilal Trivedi, and settled in Hemel Hempstead. As my in - laws and my husband had experienced hardship when they moved to UK, it touched my heart how we humans treat each other. This left a deep impression in my mind that led me to help people in need. Thereafter, I commenced working for the Department for Communities and Local government authority in Hemel Hempstead. After 35 years of service as an Executive Officer, I have now retired to enjoy my role a grandmother. Since my stay in Hemel Hempstead, I have selflessly given my service to various charitable Trusts. I am an active member of Decorum Indian Society, promoting Indian cultural consciousness through a variety of events and programmes for the last 30 years.

Rennie Grove Foundation

I find time for voluntary work to support the local charity Rennie Grove Foundation, which recently had awarded me an MBE for my contributions.

Carers in Herts. – Reaching out

At present I am an active member as a mentor in Carers in Herts & Assist in bereavement Services provided by Carers in Herts. 2020 has been a difficult year for all of us. Being a member and a Keep In Touch volunteer, this year especially, has allowed me to keep in touch with the community and ensure there is always someone to talk to. Our community has many vulnerable and lonely members. Reaching out and offering an ear has helped both of us and I have loved utilising my skills of listening, as well as having a chat. Being a people person and carer myself, I understand what a difficult challenge it can be at times. It is extremely rewarding to know you can help in some way.

Yoga Classes

During lockdown, I have been very active, teaching Yoga online for those who feel they need to pursue their interest in yoga, pranayama & mediation or to aid recovery from on-going health needs. Everyone in life goes through their own trials and tribulations, some more than others. Coming out of the other side of the pandemic, most people can now relate to what tough times look and feel like. It is those around us, our family, friends, and sense of community that help us through. Never be afraid to reach out your hand and help someone in need, in whichever way you can. One day someone else may reach out their hand to help you when you need.