Tribute to Michael Blakey (27/2/1983 - 26/11/2006)

Michael Blakey, a wonderful, intelligent and compassionate young man, was tragically and senselessly murdered in McLeod Ganj, India at the end of November 2006. Michael had been working as a volunteer with Tong-Len for the last 5 months of his life. He was only 23, but had a maturity far beyond his years and had worked tirelessly for Tong-Len from its conception.

As a graduate of the University of Wales Swansea with a first class honours degree in Development Studies, he was particularly involved in the research and development side of the charity's work, with a specific focus on education, health and community-based projects. It had been his plan to return to the UK to spend Christmas with his family but return to India for a further six months prior to commencing his studies for a PhD in London.

Michael was instrumental in the establishment of Tong-Len Charitable Trust in India in December 2004 and was one of the founder members of the partner charity, Tong-Len UK, which raises the funds for the work in the field.

The Tong-Len Michael Blakey Centre

The Michael Blakey Memorial Fund was established to enable Tong-Len to buy land on which to build The Tong-Len Michael Blakey Centre, the first phase of which is planned to be hostel accommodation for 60 children sponsored to attend school..

A big thank you to everyone who has contributed to Michael's Fund.  The initial target of £20,000 has been reached and the land was purchased on Michael's Birthday (27th February 2008). 

Tong-Len is now in the process of raising money for building. We estimate this first phase of the Tong-Len Michael Blakey Centre to cost £60,000 in addition to the land cost. Dr Ceridwen Owen, architect, has volunteered her services for the design of the Centre.

If you wish to make a donation to the Michael Blakey Memorial Fund, you can do so online through JustGiving.