8:16am Monday 7th July 2008
By Dominic Gover
AN EDMONTON woman has been honoured for her efforts in helping black people into the world of business.
Paulette West, 47, of Chichester Road, juggles being a mother of two, with developing a organisation called Growing Aspiring People (GAP).
It provides resources, advice and a hefty dose of inspiration for black people who want to get into the world of business.
However, this is not the sole focus of her efforts, as Ms West has raised £250,000 for various charities, and is active in a host of community projects, predominantly in the Afro Caribbean community.
Despite her service to the community, Ms West said that she was still very shocked when she learned that she had been awarded an MBE.
She said: "I read the letter four times wondering whether it was for real. I could not believe it.
"My friends went out and brought the paper because I just had to see it in black and white.
"It's really nice to be rewarded for doing something you are passionate about. I'm really over the moon."
Ms West's own 30-year career with Barclays Bank, where she rose to managing 1,500 staff in 33 branches after joining the firm as a typist, means she can advise fledgling business people with authority.
Ms West said that the award had made her children feel very proud of their mother.
And she added: "It will give credibility to my organisation and to myself as a person.
"The fact that someone nominated me shows my work is having an effect. I have to practice my curtsy now!"
* To find out more about GAP visit gapnetwork.co.uk
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