WOKINGHAM’s Nina Barough CBE has been awarded Freedom of the City of London, at a ceremony held on Friday 26th June.
The honour recognises Nina’s exceptional contribution to public health and cancer support over the past three decades.
During this time, she has inspired half a million people to take on a Walk the Walk challenge, including the iconic overnight fundraising event, The MoonWalk London.
Nina Barough said: “I am deeply honoured and incredibly proud to receive The Freedom of the City of London.
“This award acknowledges the founding of Walk the Walk and the commitment the charity has made towards changing so many lives.
“We have achieved this by advancing research, helping to make integrated care more freely available, and promoting the importance of good health and wellbeing as a form of prevention against breast and other cancers.
“Whilst this recognition is in my name, it reflects the wonderful passion, generosity, and commitment of the many thousands of people who have Walked the Walk and whose lives we have touched.
“From each and every walker and volunteer to our supporters, partners, and beneficiaries, and not least of all the tireless dedication of the Walk the Walk Team, our ethos and purpose have repeatedly shown the mountains that can be climbed and the challenges conquered when people come together.
“What began as a dream 30 years ago has grown into something far greater than I ever imagined.
“Learning about the history behind the Freedom and suddenly becoming part of that heritage, joining the remarkable individuals who have gone before me, made the occasion even more special.
“What a day to treasure.
“I will certainly look forward to the new experience of driving my sheep across London Bridge later in the year.”
In 1996, running her own styling and production company, Nina had the idea of power walking a marathon in a decorated bra to raise money for breast cancer.
She led 13 women through the New York City Marathon, raising £25,000
Just two months later, she found a lump in her breast.
Diagnosed with breast cancer, she underwent a mastectomy, breast reconstruction, radiotherapy and hormone treatment.
With her surgeon’s blessing, she delayed surgery to complete the London Marathon in 1997.
This was the first step towards the creation of the iconic MoonWalk London overnight fundraising event, which continues to this day
Alastair Currie, Chair of Trustees at Walk the Walk, said: “On behalf of the Trustees, I am absolutely delighted that Nina has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London.
“This honour is richly deserved and recognises not only her extraordinary vision and determination, but also the profound impact she has had on the lives of countless people affected by cancer.
“What began as a single fundraising idea has, under Nina’s leadership, grown into a charity that has raised more than £148 million, supported groundbreaking research and inspired hundreds of thousands of people to walk, fundraise and take positive steps towards better health.
“Everyone at Walk the Walk is immensely proud to see Nina’s achievements recognised in this way.
“This honour is a fitting tribute to her unwavering commitment over the past 30 years and to the remarkable community she has inspired.”
Since 1996, Nina has built Walk the Walk into one of the UK’s most impactful cancer charities, raising more than £148 million.
More than half a million people have taken part in Walk the Walk events, which raise awareness and funds for cancer prevention, research, and the emotional and physical care of those living with cancer.
Nina is also a leading advocate for walking as a tool for health and wellbeing and the author of two books published by Dorling Kindersley
The Freedom of the City of London dates back to the 13th century and is awarded to individuals in recognition of their outstanding contribution to London and public life.
Today, it celebrates those who have made a lasting and positive impact on society.
For information, visit: walkthewalk.org and cityoflondon.gov.uk
