A Cumnock woman has been named the local hero by the area's MSP.
Elena Whitham put out a call earlier this year for nominations for those who have gone above and beyond to better their communities.
The successful nominee would then be selected to attend a special ceremony and lunch at the Scottish Parliament to mark its 25th Anniversary and celebrate Scotland’s local heroes.
After what the MSP described as an “incredibly tough choice to make”, Natalie Carmichael from Cumnock was chosen as the local hero for her tireless dedication to supporting her community.
Natalie is the driving force behind the Nest Wellbeing Group based in Cumnock, which Ms Whitham recently visited.
The group provides a safe and welcoming space for people of all backgrounds and is based on the premise that everyone is recovering from something.
The group has numerous weekly activities, including a breakfast club on Wednesday mornings at Barrhill Community Centre in Cumnock.
Those who nominated Natalie also mentioned her extensive volunteering work. Natalie has served as an NHS volunteer and was particularly supportive to people in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The community hero also uses her free time to distribute clothing, food, and other household items to those in need in Cumnock and the surrounding areas.
Come Christmas, Natalie makes sure to give gifts to local care homes to spread some cheer with residents.
Natalie will attend the Scottish Parliament in September with Elena Whitham.
Speaking about the selections, MSP Elena Whitham, said: “I was overwhelmed with the many nominations I received in my call for Carrick, Cumnock, and Doon Valley’s local hero.
“In the end I chose Natalie Carmichael who radiates positivity and compassion.
“Her leadership at the Nest Wellbeing Group is truly inspiring—when I visited their Wednesday breakfast club, it felt like one big warm hug.
"Natalie operates Nest on the philosophy that everyone is recovering from something and that all are made to feel welcome and accepted for who they are. I strongly encourage you to stop by on a Wednesday morning for a good blether and to find out what Nest has on offer for you."
Elena added: “In addition to this Natalie dedicates her free time to distributing essentials to those in need and has been an NHS volunteer. Our local care home residents look forward to seeing her at Christmas time when she donates gifts.
"Everyone who nominated Natalie spoke of her support and kindness. It’s clear that our community would not be the same without her.
"I am deeply honoured to name her as my MSP local hero, and I am excited to celebrate her contributions at the Scottish Parliament in September."
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