story by: SUE CAMPBELL

A man who has dedicated his life to building bridges among diverse communities across north-east England has been given an international award for his work.

Rotary International has recognised Hari Shukla with the prestigious ‘Service Above Self’ award, which was presented to him by the Rotary North East District Governor, Joy Palmer-Cooper.

The ‘Service Above Self Award’ is Rotary's highest honour which recognises Rotarians who demonstrate Rotary's motto, by volunteering their time and talents to help others.

The award is internationally competitive, and granted to no more than 150 Rotarians worldwide each year.

Hari, a member of Tyneside Rotary, was Director of the Tyne and Wear Racial Equality Council from 1974 to 1997. He worked with key institutions to ensure the needs of the diverse communities were met, and led a number of initiatives which had a significant impact on the communities of Newcastle and the region.

Among other initiatives he helped establish were the Northumbria Police and Community Relations Group and the Newcastle Council of Faiths.

Hari also established the Newcastle City for Peace in 2013, the first initiative of its kind in the country, and the Peace Walk, which has become an annual event.

Hari initiated the 'Chain of Peace' which is believed to be the country’s first. Around 30 churches, mosques, Hindu and Sikh temples linking Newcastle’s east and west ends dedicate a service or prayer meeting once a month to mark the message of peace.

He has also been heavily involved in education and has worked on governing bodies to influence change and made sure the needs of the most vulnerable and marginalised children were met. 

Hari was made an MBE in 1985 and a CBE in 2015. He was awarded the freedom of the city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 2006.

Hari said: “I would like to express my deep gratitude to Steve Rose, past District Governor for nominating me for this award.

“It has been a wonderful privilege to serve our community through the fellowship of Rotary and all that we achieved would not have been possible had it not been for the ongoing support of my fellow Rotarians and friends who dedicate their lives to serve others.

“I am delighted to be associated with such an outstanding voluntary organisation that continues to make such as difference to the lives of many people across the world.”

District Governor, Joy Palmer-Cooper, praised the efforts of the dedicated Rotarian and said: “Hari's contribution to community service and well-being is truly extraordinary. For decades he has demonstrated the true meaning of sustained 'service above self' and is so very worthy of this esteemed award.”

Meanwhile, former District Governor, Steve Rose, offered his congratulations and added: “This is not an award given lightly and Hari thoroughly deserves this recognition for all his tireless contribution to building bridges in his communities.”