Kuldip Kaur Kohli, born in Nairobi, Kenya in 1943, trained as a teacher before living in India and emigrating to Britain in 1966. After early roles in clerical and telecommunications work while raising her young family, she settled in Glasgow, where she found her true vocation in community and social work. Beginning as a helper at the Church of Scotland International Flat, she went on to roles within education, social work and public health, including research work with the Glasgow Health Board and senior posts with Save the Children Fund and the Strathclyde Community Relations Council. Her work played a pivotal role in improving services for ethnic communities, including the successful recruitment of social work trainees dedicated to supporting those most in need.

In 1993, Kuldip joined Barnardo’s Glasgow, where she became Development Worker, leading projects supporting ethnic minorities and disabled people within the Asian community. Her vision and drive helped secure £391,000 in National Lottery funding for the Apna disability project. Alongside her professional career, Kuldip has devoted decades to voluntary work with charities, health services and advocacy groups, motivated by a belief in social justice and empowerment. Highly respected across Glasgow’s Asian communities, she is multilingual, speaking six languages including Swahili, and is admired for both her academic rigour and her tireless compassion.

Kuldip Kaur Kohli’s Unveiling of Her ‘Mother Glasgow’ Portrait

The unveiling of Mrs Kohli’s painting took place at her home in Glasgow.

Gerard had the honour of unveiling her portrait, allowing her to view herself in oil for the first time, a moment she shared with her family.