November 03, (THEWILL) – Olori Ivie Atuwatse III, wife of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has joined the ranks of eminent personalities such as Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth II, Nelson Mandela, Stephen Hawking, and Princess Diana who have been conferred with the Freedom of the City of London award in an illustrious ceremony held at Guildhall, United Kingdom.
The award is one of the United Kingdom’s most esteemed civic recognitions, a rare honour that celebrates her transformative leadership and her commitment to amplifying Africa’s authentic narratives on the global stage.
The Freedom of the City of London Award, dating back to 1237, is one of the oldest surviving traditional ceremonies still in existence today, symbolising a unique bond between the City of London and its most distinguished recipients.
The award recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to society, embodying values of leadership, courage, and philanthropy. Barely a month ago, she was conferred with the US President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, a prestigious honour conferred by Americorps and the office of the President of the United States.
The award is one of the highest recognitions given to individuals who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to volunteerism and improving lives. A distinguished advocate for Africa’s development, Olori Ivie Atuwatse III, the Queen Consort of Warri, is a visionary and a trailblazer.
Through her initiatives with the Iwere Foundation and Elevate Africa, she has dedicated herself to creating sustainable pathways for growth, poverty alleviation, and social equity in her community and beyond. Her leadership extends to initiatives that inspire resilience and promote innovation across the continent, reflecting her commitment to shaping a prosperous future for Africa.
Ivory Ukonu is a versatile journalist with many years of experience, with entertainment and society reporting as her area of core competence.
