“My affinity with the people of Belarus started in 1990. My City in Scotland formed a link with Homiel, then in the grip of the aftermath of Chernobyl. Sadly, my colleagues were killed there in 1995. The people of Homiel took this to their hearts and, led by the democratic Mayor, helped us through it. I could feel the authenticity of the people then, and I sense it in those fighting for freedom in Belarus today. I am proud to be part of this fight through the Belarus Women's Foundation. I was involved with Belarus before Lukashenko and intend to be here when he goes”.