A managing director has visited Buckingham Palace where Prince William presented her with an OBE for her service to childcare.
Kala Patel, 53, managing director of Kiddycare Nurseries, set up her first nursery at the age of 21, just six years after moving to Leicester from Kenya. She faced language barriers, financial struggles and the pressures of being a mother.
She now has four nurseries in Leicester and one based at the Royal Mail, in London.
Talking to the Leicester Mercury about visiting Buckingham Palace, she said: "It was an overwhelming and fantastic experience. It is something I will cherish for the rest of my life. The whole ceremony was so well organised, in proper British style. They made us feel so special and welcome."
She said Prince William spent two or three minutes chatting with her.
Kala, of Knighton, said he was asking about the nurseries and starting as a small enterprise.
"I said I started more or less at the same time he was born, because my son was born then – and it was difficult for me to find childcare so I could go back to work. He was so interested.
"He shook my hand and said 'I wish you the best and that your organisation goes from strength to strength'.
"I asked about his recent visit to India and about his children. I thought I was dreaming – I was talking to a future king. His aura was fantastic. He was so humble.
"He reminded me of how his mum used to be. It is a milestone for us at Kiddycare and recognition for the childcare industry. The whole experience was quite out of this world."
