Devi Patel Email & Phone Number

Chipstead, England, United Kingdom

London Area, United Kingdom

Born in Uganda, moved to the UK after Idi Amin expelled Asians. Completed education, became an Alternative Practitioner, and later opened my own clinic. Passionate about healthcare, I was one of the founders of "Care & Share International Foundation" founded in 1996, leading medical camps in various countries and assisting during the Bhopal Disaster and the South Asian Tsunami.In 2006, after a medical camp in Sierra Leone, we founded the Better Lives Foundation (BLF) in response to the severe medical needs there. We stablished the Yonibana Sai Hospital (YSH) in 2009, serving over 112,000 people in the Yoni Chiefdom and surrounding areas. The hospital offers free treatment and has conducted thousands of medical procedures, significantly improving local healthcare.BLF also sponsors local education, providing opportunities for professional development, particularly for women, thereby promoting gender equality. We actively involved local leaders and communities in BLF projects, ensuring sustainable and culturally sensitive healthcare solutions.I have consistently organized fundraising and volunteer activities, supporting both local and international healthcare and educational initiatives. BLF volunteers have been crucial in tackling challenges such as Ebola and COVID-19. The foundation continues to expand its impact through healthcare, education, and agricultural projects, driven by leadership and dedication.

London Area, United Kingdom

Summary of Devi's Community and Volunteer InitiativesDevi launched the Agricultural Social Enterprise to support self-sustainability in Sierra Leone, addressing poverty by growing fruit and vegetables around the Yonibana Sai Hospital. With a dedicated team, the project achieved its first rice harvest in 2019 and now boasts the second-largest rice farm in Yoni Chiefdom.The Better Lives Foundation (BLF) thrives on committed volunteers, providing opportunities for junior health professionals and educators to gain practical experience. International Volunteers pay their own way, ensuring all funds benefit Sierra Leoneans directly. Devi’s leadership continues to attract professionals eager to contribute.During COVID-19, Devi baked 2,600 cookies to thank UK healthcare workers and raised funds for PPE in Sierra Leone. She also launched the Holding Hands Project, providing food for 400 children in Harrow, and organized a webinar on Harmful Traditional Practices with the British Association of Social Workers.BLF has organically grown, focusing on hospital expansion and job creation in local communities. Devi's initiatives include creating eco-friendly bricks and fostering long-term development in Sierra Leone.In the UK, Devi supports various local projects:Collaborated with Croydon Violence Against Women and Girls team for safe spaces in schools.Distributed food to 400 vulnerable families.Participated in a walk to raise awareness about FGM.Supporting the Macmillan Sewing Bee network by donating drain bags for cancer patients.