A charity chief from Neasden has won an award for her dedicated work in the community.

Brent & Kilburn Times: The winners at the Gathering of Africa�s Best awardsThe winners at the Gathering of Africa�s Best awards (Image: Archant)

Dame Betty Asafu Adjaye, 61, the founder of the Mission Dine Club (MDC), was recognised at the 18th annual Gathering of Africa’s Best awards.

Dame Betty, who lives in Bentham Walk on the St Raphael’s Estate, said: “I wept. So many people were nominated.

“They thanked me for the humanitarian work I have done caring for people for 30 years.”

The Ghanian-born humanitarian used to run her 25-year-old charity from a building she owned in Fry Road, Harlesden, where she held lunch clubs, social events and for the borough’s most vulnerable residents.

In 2011 Brent Council demolished the vital centre to expand a school, but Dame Betty continues to run her service travelling around by bus to those who need it.

Mai Sim Lai OBE, who accompanied Dame Betty to the awards ceremony, said: “Dame Betty has devoted the past 30 years of her life to helping others through Mission Dine Club. I am so pleased that her sterling efforts have been recognised through the GAB award.

“It was a pleasure to accompany her to the awards event and to share such a happy occasion with her.”

Prime Minister Theresa May sent a goodwill message to the awards’ organisers.

She said: “These awards are an opportunity for us all to recognise the incredible achievements of successful African men and women across sectors including financial services, retail, media, the arts, science and technology and sport.

“I would like to congratulate the organisers and volunteers for making these awards such a successful event and wish everyone involved all the best.”

For a full list of all the winners click here.