Camila Batmanghelidjh, renowned for advocating for vulnerable children, leaves a legacy

In a somber turn of events, Camila Batmanghelidjh, the visionary founder of the renowned charity Kids Company, has passed away at the age of 61. The news follows a New Year‘s celebration with her family, marking a poignant end to her remarkable journey dedicated to championing the cause of Britain’s most vulnerable children.

Camila’s family released a statement to the Guardian, confirming her peaceful passing in her sleep on the night of January 1, after a joyous birthday celebration. The statement highlighted Camila’s unwavering dedication to advocating for children and her role as the founder of both Place2Be and Kids Company, charities that pioneered therapeutic and clinical models to empower young individuals to realize their potential.

Born in Iran in 1963, Camila Batmanghelidjh’s impactful journey included setting up Place2Be in 1991, a program designed to support troubled primary school children. She later founded Kids Company, extending its reach to over 40 schools in London and Bristol, providing assistance to youngsters affected by poverty, abuse, trauma, and gang violence.

Camila’s work, infused with her psychotherapy training, raised substantial funds for vulnerable youth, earning her the moniker ‘Angel of Peckham.’ Her services to children and young people were recognized with an honorary Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) appointment.

Despite her substantial contributions, Kids Company faced financial mismanagement allegations, leading to its closure in 2015 after absorbing over £42 million in public funding across 19 years. The collapse, coupled with accusations of providing luxury spa breaks and cash envelopes to individual children, triggered criticism and an investigation. In August 2017, Camila faced potential six-year bans from running companies.

Camila Batmanghelidjh’s passing leaves a void in the realm of child advocacy, but her legacy as a tireless advocate for vulnerable children will endure.