Turkish lady receives Sweden's Prestigious award for protecting community

STOCKHOLM: Fatma Ipek Alci, a Turkish immigrant in Sweden has recently received the prestigious 'Hero of the Year' award for her services towards protecting the neighborhood to maintain security in her community.

A mother of seven, 63-year-old Fatma received the most number of public votes to be awarded the 'Hero of the Year' in the “Guiding Light” category in Sweden.

Fatma was the most popular candidate in the contest organized by Aftonbladet, one of the most important newspapers in Sweden, and the winner was named by the people.

The "2017 Swedish heroes" awards ceremony was held in the capital Stockholm, where distinguished guests from politics, arts and sports participated.

Fatma, who moved to Sweden 30 years ago, said she established a “security association” in her neighborhood with middle-aged Turkish women to maintain security in her community.

Dedicating her award to all the Turkish women in the world, Fatma said,” "We, with more than 20 members of the association, ensure the safety of the Fittja neighborhood by taking night walks on Fridays and Saturdays.”

She was able to achieve this feat with the help of other women. "I have received this award on behalf of Turkish women," said Fatma.

The women of the association have managed to prevent youths from damaging local markets, she added.

Sweden’s Deputy Prime Minister, Education Minister and its national soccer team extended heartfelt felicitations to Fatma on receiving the award.