The boss of an NHS trust has been presented with her OBE by the Princess Royal.

Lorraine Sunduza, chief executive of the East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT), received her OBE at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle.

Ms Sunduza was named in the New Year Honours list 2024 for her contribution to mental and community health, and leadership in the NHS.

Lorraine Sunduza was named in the 2024 New Year Honours list for her contribution to mental and community healthLorraine Sunduza was named in the 2024 New Year Honours list for her contribution to mental and community health (Image: East London NHS Foundation Trust)

She was officially appointed as the chief executive in May, having originally joined the trust in 2002 as a charge nurse in forensic services.

Ms Sunduza said: "It was an absolute privilege and honour to receive my OBE from the Princess Royal, and humbling to be recognised for this important work.

Lorraine Sunduza OBE holding her OBE medalLorraine Sunduza holding her OBE (Image: East London NHS Foundation Trust)

"I was also delighted to have my parents visiting from Zimbabwe and my daughter alongside me.

"I could not have done the work I have for the trust without their support, and that of colleagues and friends."

In response to her achievement, ELFT’s chair Eileen Taylor added: "This ceremony recognises Lorraine’s outstanding leadership and dedication to the communities we serve in east London and Bedfordshire, and I cannot think of anybody more deserving of this honour."