NiteLight
1984. Nadia Gibany
Nadia Gibany, from Middlesbrough, created ‘Nite Light’, an innovative digital pay-it-forward platform to support the most vulnerable members of communities across Teesside.
During the pandemic, Nadia noticed that many people had become less willing to give cash to homeless people and wanted to find a way to ensure donations could still reach those who needed it the most. Money donated online is split equally between local cafes, shops and restaurants which allow service users to purchase meals, drinks, clothes and hygiene products by handing over a card distributed by local organisations working with vulnerable individuals. ‘Nite Light’ also runs physical activities, including regular free market stalls and town centre walkabouts, distributing items to people in need. First launched in her home city of Middlesbrough, Nadia is now working across Stockton, Hartlepool, Darlington, and Redcar and Cleveland, and provided support for over 50,000 people.
In a personal letter to Nadia, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:
“I was inspired to hear about your brilliant work creating ‘Nite Light’ to support vulnerable people across Teesside.
“Your ingenious digital pay-it-forward scheme has helped over 50,000 people by creating a safe and simple way for help to reach those that need it most.
“It is fantastic to learn how you have partnered with local businesses, enabling your whole community to benefit from the generosity of others.”
Nadia said:
“It is our pleasure to serve and support the most vulnerable within our community. Recognition is not sought, and we are overwhelmed to have been selected for this award, thank you.”