JUST before Christmas, one of the Patrons of Essex-based Charity, The Dream Factory, Anne Wafula-Strike MBE, British Wheelchair Paralympian, was delighted to be bestowed an Honorary Membership to The Rotary Club of London.

Anne who now lives in Harlow, was born in Mihu, Kenya, and was a fit and healthy child before polio struck when she was two years old. After graduating from Moi University, Anne taught at Machakos Technical College in Kenya before meeting the man she would marry – which led her to Britain in 2000, motherhood, wheelchair racing, disability advocacy, and charity work.  Anne became the first wheelchair racer from Sub-Sahara Africa to compete at the Paralympics in Athens.

In 2006 she joined Team GB and in 2007 she was officially recognised by the Queen at a Buckingham Palace reception for her work as a disabled athlete and for involvement in charity work for people with disabilities.

Anne said:

“The 15 December was one of those special days where you pause, reflect, and appreciate with humility and gratitude. Rotarians have been my heroes for a long time because of the work they do globally – creating positive change, solving community needs, and building a stronger generation. The Rotary Club of London, bestowed to me the Honorary Membership. I feel blessed to join other Honorary Members including His Majesty King Charles, Prof. Michael Mainelli Economist, and former Lord Mayor of the City of London.”

Anne is a very active Patron of Essex-based charity The Dream Factory, who for the last 18 years, have been dedicated to granting dreams to children and young adults between the age of 3 to 25 years, who suffer from life-threatening, life-limiting conditions, or have severe disabilities, or are sadly having end of life care.  The charity has brought joy, hope, and unforgettable experiences and dreams to nearly 770 children and their families, during some of the most challenging times!

Avril Mills BEM, Honorary Freeman of The Borough of Redbridge, Founder & Trustee of The Dream Factory Children’s Charity said:

“We are so proud to have Anne as one of our Patrons and value her dedication to The Dream Factory.  Congratulations on your Honorary Membership to The Rotary Club of London.  Without the incredible support we have received from all our Patrons, Supporters and Volunteers throughout 2025, we wouldn’t be able to continue granting dreams to the children and young adults who need them most.  We are so very grateful and together, let us continue making dreams come true in 2026!”

Thank You  to Ince PR