THERE is just one week left to send in your nominations for the Argus’ Pride of Gwent Awards.

We have had nominations from across the region for people doing tireless good work in our communities.

Among the figures who have been nominated is Zena Setterlund,

He daughter, Chanelle Ramejkis, said: “My mum is a very courageous and brave lady who has the biggest heart. She spends her time volunteering with numerous charities, pushing herself above and beyond.”

When we told Newport resident Mrs Setterlund about her Volunteer Award nomination she said: “It’s amazing, can’t put into words how I feel.

“I have a special bond with Chanelle, she was my carer when I was seriously ill and we have come though some difficult times.”

Mrs Setterlund suffered from serious kidney problems which meant she almost died on two occasions. She said the motivates her desire to give back and do voluntary work.

“I’m lucky to be here, I have my family and there some people who are literally by themselves, and when life is like that it can be dark and lonely,” she added.

The full-time mother spends her time volunteering with a number of organisations in Gwent. One of the closest to her heart is the organisation Food for Thought.

“We go out distributing hot food to rough sleepers who are out on streets in Newport,” Mrs Setterlund said.

“We have businesses on board proving food and tea and we speak to them to see what they need.

“When I came back to Newport from Cheshire I was homeless for three months before I was given housing. I wasn’t out in the cold, but I was sleeping on a friend’s sofa. I did face the challenges and obstacles that homeless people face.”

Cats are another passion for the devoted volunteer, and she also helps out at the New Start Cat Rescue in Usk when she can.

“I have three cats, but I’m actually allergic them,” she said. “I have two cats with three legs. I help rescue cats from potentially volatile situations. We get anonymous calls and we liaise with people and try get them signed over to the charity. If there is a cat in serious need I will get a phone call, then collect it and take it to a vet.”

The mum-of-five is also on the board of governors at Ringland Primary School.

She said: “I love it and I find it very rewarding. My son has special needs and I want to raise £5,000 for new sensory equipment for the school.”

In the coming months Mrs Setterlund is planning a range of activities including a skydive.

She said that most important of all for her, is providing a good example for her children: “I want to be a positive role model for my children. If you can spare half a bit of kindness it goes a long way.”

You can still submit your nominations for the Pride of Gwent Awards.

We know there are so many people out there who go the extra mile, who volunteer tirelessly for charities, who are carers, incredible fund-raisers, or who have faced adversity with great courage.

There are only a few days left for you to send your nominations for the Pride of Gwent Awards, which contain the following categories:

  • 999 hero Award
  • Charity Champion Award
  • Life Saver Award
  • Special Recognition Award
  • Community Hero Award
  • Courage Award Award
  • Achiever Award
  • Good Samaritan Award
  • Volunteer Award
  • Carer Award
  • Local Hero Award
  • Environment Award
  • Lifetime Achievement Award

To nominate someone for an award fill in the form here. 

The closing date for nominations is January 27. with a judging panel picking winners in February followed by a ceremony in March at the Coldra Court Hotel by Celtic Manor.

South Wales Argus: