Trisha Silvester, a dedicated advocate for women and children, has passed away at the age of 79. Known for her unwavering commitment to philanthropy, she co-founded Sreepur Village, a charity in rural Bangladesh that has provided sanctuary for countless individuals facing severe hardship. Her life story is a testament to the transformative power of compassion and community.
A Journey of Transformation
Born in Bromley, Trisha was the daughter of Gordon Thompson, an insurance broker, and his wife Doreen. From an early age, she demonstrated a passion for reading and a love for animals, values that would shape her empathetic approach to life. After completing her education at Bromley High, she married Michael Silvester in 1966, embarking on a journey that would take them from the UK to North America and back.
Trisha’s path took a pivotal turn in the 1970s when a television programme featuring Canadian humanitarian Sandra Simpson inspired her. After meeting Simpson and visiting an orphanage in Dhaka in 1977, Trisha was compelled to take action, founding Families for Children (UK) to raise funds for the orphanage.
Building a Community
During her visit to the orphanage, Trisha’s heart was captured by two young girls, Sukuri and Hasina. In a profound act of love, she adopted them, expanding her family to include her biological sons, thus fulfilling her dream of motherhood.
In 1981, Pat Kerr, a British Airways flight attendant, visited the same orphanage and was similarly moved. Together, Trisha and Pat launched an ambitious project, leading to the establishment of Sreepur Village in 1989. Located two hours north of Dhaka, this purpose-built community has since sheltered approximately 350 individuals at any given time, offering not only refuge but also vocational training for mothers and education for children.
This initiative was significantly bolstered by fundraising efforts, including the sale of Christmas cards created by local women, which provided them with a living wage. Such innovative approaches showcased Trisha’s ability to empower those in need while fostering meaningful connections across borders.
Lasting Impact and Recognition
Trisha’s enduring dedication to Sreepur Village earned her the title of MBE in 2001. For over 40 years, she served as the charity’s chair of trustees, making regular trips from her home in south London until her retirement in 2019. The organisation, known locally as Shishu Polli Plus, continues to flourish, thanks to her foundational work.
Beyond her charitable contributions, Trisha pursued an MBA at Greenwich University in the late 1990s and successfully launched two early digital businesses, all while navigating the challenges of single parenthood after her marriage ended in 1983. Her resilience and ambition inspired many, and she cultivated a global network of friends, often referred to as her “warrior women.”
Trisha is survived by her four children and eight grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and social change.
Why it Matters
Trisha Silvester’s life reminds us of the profound impact one individual can have on the world. Through her dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable women and children in Bangladesh, she not only transformed countless lives but also set a standard for humanitarian efforts worldwide. Her story is a powerful example of how empathy and action can create meaningful change, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for social justice and equality.
