Festive window display pays tribute to Edinburgh charity hero

In a celebration of community spirit and festive joy, Edinburgh’s very own local legend, Shikha Ahuja, is being honoured in a vibrant Christmas window display at Pret A Manger on North Bridge.

Article Source: Pret A Manger
Last Updated: 28 November 2024 15:22

28th November 2024 - In a heartwarming celebration of community spirit and festive joy, Edinburgh’s very own local legend, Shikha Ahuja, is being honoured in a vibrant Christmas window display at Pret A Manger on North Bridge.

Shikha Ahuja, 54, a dedicated member of the Milan Senior Welfare Organisation, has been nominated by the charity for her enthusiastic and unwavering commitment over five years. Shikha brings joy, connection, and a dash of Bollywood magic to the elderly amongst Edinburgh’s South Asian community. She is always looking for ways to enhance the lives of others, from organising cooking clubs and yoga sessions, through to leading a digital literacy programme for senior citizens, to help them become better connected and combat loneliness.

As a tribute, Shikha is being commemorated in a window display that perfectly captures the festive season – complete with a garland featuring food from Pret’s beloved Christmas menu.

Shikha says: “I’m truly humbled to be featured in this beautiful display. For me, it’s about more than just providing a service. It’s about spreading warmth and helping older people feel more loved and less alone, whether by reconnecting them with family on Zoom or creating spaces to socialise through community arts and crafts. I feel blessed by everyone I help and grow a little each day.

“To be celebrated in this festive display, surrounded by the spirit of generosity and community, is so uplifting. A huge thank you to the team at Milan Senior Welfare Organisation, The Pret Foundation and everyone who works towards making Edinburgh a more connected community.”

The Edinburgh display is part of a national celebration of joy, with additional windows in Liverpool, London, Birmingham and Manchester showcasing the most joyous moments of 2024, Top 10 list below. Pret is encouraging everyone to visit their local shop, admire the displays and share in the festive spirit by using the hashtag #ShareTheJoy on social media.

Katherine Bagshaw, UK Food and Coffee Director, said: “At Pret, we believe that Christmas is about bringing people together, celebrating, and sharing the joy. We’re thrilled to be able to tell inspiring stories of remarkable individuals who make a real difference in their community. Shikha's nomination is testament to her dedication in helping others - thanks to The Pret Foundation, we’re able to provide food, resources, and support to those affected by hunger and homelessness, not just at Christmas but year-round.”

TOP 10 – 2024 MOMENTS OF JOY

1. England men’s football team reaching the final of Euro 2024
2. David Attenborough celebrates 70 years of service as a conservationist and broadcaster
3. Jude Bellingham’s overhead goal for England against Slovakia at Euro 2024
4. The announcement of the Gavin and Stacey Christmas special
5. Keely Hodgkinson’s 800 meters gold at the Olympics for Team GB
6. 16-year-old Luke Littler reaching the final of the 2024 PDC World Darts Championship
7. Andy Murray's emotional retirement match at Wimbledon
8. Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour
9. Announcement of Oasis reforming
10. The Coronation Street 65th anniversary special

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