IT’S a royal hat-trick for a woman who serves the Bradford community as she met Prince William for the third time in two years, to accept her MBE.

Sofia Buncy DL made the trip to Buckingham Place on Thursday to receive her award but little did she know she would be meeting a familiar royal.

Ms Buncy was presented with her MBE by the Prince of Wales who she had previously met when the royal couple paid a visit to the Khidmat Centres in 2020, where Ms Buncy works.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Sofia Buncy, DL received her MBE at Buckingham palace on Thursday. Picture: NewsquestSofia Buncy, DL received her MBE at Buckingham palace on Thursday. Picture: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

She was recognised yesterday for the breadth of her work, including her services to the HMPPS and her commitment to the community of Bradford.

Ms Buncy said: “I’m tremendously lucky to have been awarded this MBE.

“It’s a huge achievement and I’m honoured to have been presented with it.

“This MBE acknowledges the breadth of my work and this wouldn’t have been possible without the support and encouragement of my family who has forfeited time with me on countless occasions so that I could work and dedicate myself to the causes I represent."

“I had no idea I would be meeting the Prince of Wales and I did tell him, it’s a hat-trick for me.”

Her hard work and commitment to the communities she serves, have won her several accolades over the years.

She was keen to invite the royal couple back to Bradford for another visit as the city won the City of Culture.

“It’s about visibility for the city and showcasing the work of important and often pioneering projects and initiatives within the City”

“I informed His Highness, he should come back to Bradford as we’ve won the City of Culture.

“When I mentioned the Khidmat Centres he remembered the magnificent cake that we had on his visit at the entrance.”

Ms Buncy spoke with the Prince of Wales about her work regarding underrepresented communities in the Criminal Justice system and the disproportionalities black and brown people face in this space.

She also mentioned the hard work that’s been going on at the Khidmat Centres since the royal visit and the Young in Covid project that has inspired people across the nation.

“I’ve always said, I work at the heart and core of community and I’m extremely passionate about what I do.

“It’s sometimes a relenting job that requires my attention 24/7 it feels like at times, but I feel honoured that my work has been recognised over my career of 15 years.

“This isn’t just about me, it’s about all the people who have supported me throughout my career, and it feels good to take a moment and celebrate what we’ve achieved together.”

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