The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

THE contribution of a Bahamian humanitarian who has exerted much effort to promote human welfare and dignity will be recognised by the Sir Victor Sassoon Heart Foundation in the new year.

The foundation, along with the Heart Ball Committee, has announced that is now accepting nominations for the 2015 Lady Sassoon Golden Heart Award. As has been the tradition since 1968, the Lady Sassoon Golden Heart Award will be presented at the 52nd Annual Heart Ball in February.

The Lady Sassoon Golden Heart Award was initiated by The Heart Foundation to applaud and give recognition to individuals who have selflessly given of themselves, to promote human welfare and dignity, thus making life better for their fellow men.

Those individuals at times go unrecognised by the wider community for their efforts and go beyond the call of duty, working outside their normal scope of work, to make an impact on the Bahamas’ social, educational, health and economic systems.

Last year’s Golden Heart Award recipient was well known businessman A Bismark Coakley, who passed away in July. He received the award for his selfless efforts to improve the lives of others as a founding member of Toastmasters International, Rotary Club of West Nassau, Young Presidents Organisation and founding director of Junior Achievement. He also served as director of the Physically Challenged Children’s Committee (PCCC).

In 1991, Mr Coakley became involved with the PCCC, then known as the Crippled Children’s Committee. Initially he was the committee’s treasurer before being elected chairman. There, he worked with both local and international physicians in seeking the best care for the children affected with disabilities.

“Mr Coakley stood out as what we look for in a Golden Heart Award winner. The award is presented to a person who gives of themselves, selflessly for the betterment of their fellow man,” said R E Barnes, chairman of the Heart Foundation. “We are still saddened by his passing.”

In addition to Mr Coakley, recent winners of the award include Shelagh Pritchard, Shelia Culmer, Marjorie Davis, Lady Camille Barnett and Dr Donald Gerace.

“The qualities desired in a nominee is that the individual works to better their fellow men. They can work with institutions or by taking up challenges on their own. The important thing is that they better their fellow men without looking for a reward,” said Mr Barnes.

“It is the people’s award and the nominations come from the public. There are worthy people out there who deserve acknowledgment for their contributions and we are excited to be able to honour someone once again,” he said.

Submissions for the 2015 Lady Sassoon Golden Heart Award can be delivered to Grosham Property, Cable Beach, or emailed to sassoonheart@gmail.com. The deadline for nominations is December 31.

For more information visit sassoonheartfoundation.org or call 327-0806.