Camila Batmanghelidjh Obituary

Camila Batmanghelidjh CBE, an Iranian-Belgian author, psychotherapist, and charity executive, passed away on January 1, 2024, marking her 61st birthday.

As the founder of the renowned charities Kids Company and Place2Be, Batmanghelidjh dedicated her life to championing the cause of marginalized children and young people in inner London, Bristol, and Liverpool.

Born on January 1, 1963, Camila’s journey was marked by a profound commitment to philanthropy and an unwavering dedication to the welfare of those most in need. Between 1996 and 2015, she ascended to high-profile status, earning acclaim from celebrities and politicians alike for her exceptional work with Kids Company.

During this period, The Guardian described her as “one of the most powerful advocates for vulnerable children in the country,” solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the realm of child welfare.

Camila’s impact extended beyond charity work; she was affectionately dubbed the “Angel of Peckham” for her compassionate efforts in transforming the lives of countless children. The collapse of Kids Company in 2015 marked a challenging chapter in her legacy, but it did not overshadow the profound impact she had on the lives of many.

In 2007, her advocacy and tireless efforts earned her a place among the 100 most powerful women in the UK, a prestigious list that included luminaries such as JK Rowling and Theresa May, according to BBC Radio 4.

Further recognizing her contributions, she was awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2013 for her outstanding services to children and young people.

Camila Batmanghelidjh’s passing leaves behind a legacy of compassion, advocacy, and a relentless pursuit of justice for vulnerable children. Her life’s work, marked by accolades and recognition, serves as a testament to the transformative power of kindness and the enduring impact one individual can have on the lives of many.