As communities across the UK celebrate International Women’s Month, Newcastle recognises the extraordinary contributions of 66-year-old community champion Rehana Hoque, whose decades of service, compassion and resilience have transformed lives within the caring sector and among underrepresented communities.
Rehana Hoque, a proud mother, grandmother and lifelong carer, was recently honoured with the Lord Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Voluntary Contributions which was presented at a special Civic event on 26 February. The award recognises her decades of dedication to supporting carers, championing inclusion, and breaking cultural and social barriers.
Former Lord Mayor Cllr Habib Rahman, who nominated Rehana for the award, described her as a powerful example of leadership and compassion in action.
Cllr Rahman said:
“I am always inspired by individuals like Rehana for their dedication to volunteering and their commitment to shaping services while breaking barriers. Her work has not only supported countless carers but has helped ensure that culturally appropriate support is recognised and valued within our communities.”
A life of selfless caring and volunteering
Rehana’s life has been deeply shaped by her role as a mother and carer to her eldest son, who lives with a learning disability. For decades she has navigated emotional, cultural and practical challenges while ensuring her son lives a life filled with dignity, inclusion and opportunity. Her lived experience has also enabled her to support other families facing similar challenges, offering empathy, guidance and hope.
Reflecting on the recognition, Rehana Hoque said:
“Caring for my son has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life. Like many carers, the journey has not always been easy, but it is filled with love, purpose and strength. I share this recognition with every carer who gives their time and heart to support their loved ones.”
Rehana began her volunteering journey in the 1990s with West End Befrienders, supporting Asian carers at a time when cultural barriers often prevented many from accessing help. She later worked for a decade with Dekh Bhal an Asian carers project, from 1993 to 2003, helping shape services that better reflected the needs of diverse communities.
Today, she continues her voluntary work with Newcastle Carers, organising and supporting day trips and family events that provide emotional support, friendship and vital connections for carers who might otherwise feel isolated.
The Lord Mayor of Newcastle’s Award for Rehana’s service to others
Cllr Habib Rahman said:
“Rehana’s story is a powerful reminder that true leadership often happens quietly through service and dedication. Her work has uplifted families, challenged stigma and strengthened communities across Newcastle.”
Rehana is also recognised as a pioneer. In the early 1990s, she undertook lifeguard training at a time when there was minimal representation of Asian or Muslim women in the field. She went on to become Newcastle’s first female Asian Muslim lifeguard at Elswick Pool, challenging stereotypes and inspiring many young women to pursue opportunities previously thought to be out of reach.
Speaking about the nomination, Rehana expressed deep gratitude to Cllr Rahman. She said: “Cllr Habib Rahman has been a true inspiration and role model to many within our community. For him, as a Muslim man and a community leader, to nominate a woman like me means a great deal. I am deeply grateful for his support and encouragement.”
Cllr Rahman further highlighted the significance of recognising women like Rehana during International Women’s Month.
He said: “Rehana became the first Muslim woman lifeguard in an era when such achievements were often considered impossible for women from our communities. She is truly a trailblazer and a role model. During International Women’s Month, it is only right that we celebrate remarkable women like Rehana who continue to inspire future generations.”
Now aged 66, Rehana Hoque remains a driving force in her community. Her lifelong commitment to volunteering, advocacy and inclusion has helped dismantle stereotypes and build stronger, more compassionate communities.
Her story stands as a powerful example of how dedication, resilience and compassion can create lasting change – a message that resonates strongly during International Women’s Month, as communities celebrate the achievements and leadership of women everywhere.
