Emotional Farewell to Camila Batmanghelidjh:
Fashion designer Bella Freud delivered heartfelt words at the funeral service of Kids Company founder Camila Batmanghelidjh, expressing deep admiration for the late charity chief.
The funeral, held at Golders Green Crematorium in North London, paid tribute to Batmanghelidjh’s impactful life.
Colourful Celebration of Life:
In accordance with Batmanghelidjh’s wishes, her funeral was a vibrant affair, rejecting the somber tradition of black attire.
Messages inscribed on her coffin, such as ‘Your spirit will live forever’ and ‘Queen of the South,’ reflected the colourful spirit she embodied.
Messages of Comfort from Batmanghelidjh:
Batmanghelidjh, who passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 61, had left a message for attendees in her will, urging them not to be sad.
She emphasized that she had an ‘absolutely brilliant life’ and cherished the opportunity to serve countless children and young people throughout her journey.
Family and Public Figures Attend:
The funeral service drew a diverse gathering of mourners, including public figures like Alan Yentob, former chairman of Kids Company, and EastEnders actress Michelle Collins.
Camila’s brother, Ardi, conveyed a message expressing her remarkable ability to connect with individuals on a profound level.
Legacy of Disrupting Social Services:
Batmanghelidjh’s brother highlighted her dedication to disrupting the social services paradigm of the late 1990s.
Despite facing challenges and becoming entangled in political controversies in 2015, her goal remained focused on advocating for vulnerable children and young people.
A Poetic Reading and Celebrity Tributes:
Renowned poet Lemn Sissay delivered a poignant reading of his poem “Invisible Kisses” at the service.
Celebrity supporters, including Michelle Collins, shared tributes, recalling their encounters with the ‘incredible woman’ who had a profound impact on those she touched.
The Legacy of Kids Company:
Founded in 1996, Kids Company aimed to support vulnerable children and young people in London, with expansion to Bristol and Liverpool.
The charity garnered support from celebrities like David Cameron, Coldplay, Damien Hirst, and Michael McIntyre. Despite its closure in 2015 amid controversies, Batmanghelidjh’s dedication to the cause persisted until her passing.
A Life of Service and Recognition:
Batmanghelidjh, dubbed the ‘Angel of Peckham’ during the peak of her success, received a CBE for her exceptional service to charity and young people. Her family emphasized her ongoing commitment to working with vulnerable children until her final days.
Challenges and Controversies:
While Kids Company supported 36,000 vulnerable children, young people, and families, it faced challenges and controversies, leading to its closure in 2015.
Government grants, business support, and general donations fueled the organization before its collapse.
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