We’re proud to share that Cherrie Bija finalist in the IoD Wales Director of the Year Awards 2026, in the Public and Third Sector category.
This recognition celebrates outstanding leadership, and it couldn’t be more deserved. Cherrie’s work continues to shape how children and families are supported across Swansea Bay, and far beyond.
A moment to recognise leadership that makes a difference
The Institute of Directors (IoD) is a national organisation that supports and champions leaders across the UK. Their mission is simple but powerful, creating better directors for a better world.
Through professional development, peer networks, and influence at government level, the IoD brings together leaders from all sectors to share knowledge, strengthen leadership, and drive positive change.
So, to be named a finalist in these awards is a huge achievement. It places Cherrie alongside leaders who are shaping organisations, communities, and systems across Wales.
Cherrie Bija finalist – leadership rooted in community
Cherrie’s leadership is grounded in something simple but powerful, understanding people, and standing alongside families when it matters most.
As CEO of Faith in Families, she has led the growth of services that support children and families facing poverty, trauma, and crisis. From Community Cwtches offering safe, welcoming spaces, to Cwtch Mawr Multibank providing essentials with dignity, her work focuses on both immediate support and long-term change.
However, what makes Cherrie stand out is not just what she has built, but how she leads. Her approach is relationship-led, trauma-informed, and deeply connected to the communities we serve.
Because of that, families feel safe to ask for help, often for the first time.
Impact that goes beyond one organisation
Cherrie’s influence extends well beyond Faith in Families.
She holds national and regional leadership roles, including with the Lloyds Bank Foundation, BBC Children in Need Impact, and Swansea Council for Voluntary Service. Through these roles, she helps shape how funding is distributed, how services are designed, and how organisations work together to support children.
As a result, her leadership is helping to influence wider systems, not just individual services.
She is also a doctoral researcher, focusing on children’s sense of belonging and value. This ensures that her leadership remains grounded in evidence, while always keeping children at the centre of decision-making.
Why this recognition matters
This isn’t just about one person, it’s about recognising the importance of leadership in the third sector.
Strong leadership creates stronger organisations. In turn, stronger organisations create better outcomes for children and families.
Being named a finalist shines a light on the work happening every day across our Community Cwtches and Cwtch Mawr Multibank. It highlights the difference that early support, connection, and dignity can make.
Winners will be announced on Friday 8th May at ICC Wales in Newport, and we’ll be cheering Cherrie on every step of the way.
No matter the outcome, this recognition already says so much. It reflects years of dedication, leadership, and a clear focus on making things better for children and families.
Get involved and support our work
If you’d like to learn more about how Faith in Families supports children and families across Swansea Bay, you can visit our website:
👉 https://faithinfamilies.wales
Or, if you’d like to support our work, whether through fundraising, partnerships, or volunteering, we’d love to hear from you.
Because behind every award and every headline, there are families whose lives are changing, and that’s what matters most.
