Last week our DI Team Coordinator Merfat was celebrated as a finalist at MWOTY awards 2024, being named runner up in the “Women to Watch” category.
The nomination celebrated her work leading the Direct Intervention team in its mission to end ‘honour’-based abuse and harmful practices. In her role, Merfat is a powerful advocate for survivors and those at risk of ‘honour’-based abuse (HBA) and harmful practices.
In the last year Merfat has led our DI team – a group of young women – with passion and tenacity. Together they have helped 178 clients, responded to 495 calls to the helpline and spent 2,292 hours working to safeguard those experiencing HBA and harmful practices.
Outside of her professional role she is passionate about battling racism and works to foster an environment of understanding and dialogue in her local community. Merfat has achieved this success despite battling a long-term, undiagnosed illness throughout childhood, being out of school for a long time. Merfat got her own education back on track and was the first person in her family to graduate from university.
Donna Scully, Director of Carpenters Group, was named this year’s overall Merseyside Woman of the Year, for her selfless work in the communities, within and outside her professional career.
Emily McChrystal from Restless Development was named the winner in Merfat’s category, for her work empowering young marginalised people and advocating for change within Liverpool.
Well done to all the inspirational finalists. Head to the MWOTY official website to see all winners and runner-ups for each category.