Congratulations to Gillian Aghajan, who was presented with the Anne Hanrahan award as part of the 2025 BF Honours in recognition of her contribution to fencing.
The Anne Hanrahan award, part of the BF Honours, was presented at the AGM to Gillian Aghajan.
Tell us a little about the work you do to support fencing.
I have been a volunteer in the world of fencing for over 20 years in a variety of roles, which have included sports therapy with GBR wheelchair fencing, previous Chairman of Bath Sword Club and British Veterans Fencing (BVF), and currently BVF Team Manager for international events, and photographer.
What’s your favourite memory of your time volunteering in fencing?
It would be hard to pick a favourite memory as I have so many memories of fun, camaraderie and shared experiences around the world. Maybe I should write a book!
What does it mean to receive the 2025 BF Honours award?
To receive the Anne Hanrahan award is an unexpected honour and a privilege for me. I am delighted that I am considered worthy of such a prestigious and meaningful award.
What would you say to people considering volunteering in fencing or sport in general?
Volunteering in fencing or sport in general gives a chance to open a new world to meet and engage with like-minded people, which I thoroughly recommend. I hope to carry on volunteering for as long as I can contribute to fencing.
The Anne Hanrahan award was donated anonymously in memory of Anne Hanrahan, not only for her long service as a volunteer but also for her outstanding personal qualities. Recipients of the award will therefore have contributed many years of service in a voluntary capacity, or going significantly above and beyond a professional capacity, while demonstrating the following qualities:
- Hardworking – consistently going above and beyond the call of duty.
- Uncompromisingly honest and fair – never allowing personal allegiances to affect their decision-making.
- Always showing passion and devotion to the sport.
The award is open to both members and non-members of British Fencing as well as members of staff. However, sitting Board members are not eligible. It will not be presented every year.
The decision as to who receives the award sits with the anonymous donor of the award informed and approved by the BF President (representing the BF Honours Committee) and CEO (representing the BF Executive Team).