Three Network Rail employees have been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in this year’s New Year’s Honours.

Milla Mazilu, who is a Principal Programme Controls Manager at Network Rail Wales and Western Region, has been volunteering with the Royal Academy of Engineering on a project called COVID-19 African Rapid Entrepreneurs (CARE) in addition to her normal Network Rail duties.

The main aim of the CARE programme is to support engineering entrepreneurs in Africa to make and supply Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) so that it is used effectively in hospitals and clinics in sub-Saharan Africa.

Through CARE, Milla has shared her expertise in leading projects for the academy and training other members to use new technologies.

Stuart Calvert, Head of Capital Delivery at Network Rail Wales and Western said: “I am delighted to see Milla receive this recognition, her passion for innovation and improvement extends not only in our workplace but within volunteering work across the industry.

“To be able to support Royal Academy of Engineering with CARE shows Milla’s dedication to her profession, her desire to share that passion and the true team spirit that the railway is known for.”

Two other Network Rail employees were also recognised in the New Year’s Honours list.

Akthar Hussain and Vince James were awarded British Empire Medals (BEM) for a variety of work. These included crucial volunteer and community work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, boosting diversity in the rail industry, and helping ex-prisoners to attain the skills and qualifications required for a railway career.

Network Rail chief executive, Andrew Haines, said: “I would like to congratulate Akthar, Milla and Vince for their inclusion in the New Year’s Honours list.

“It makes me proud to hear about the incredible, selfless work employees are doing to improve the lives of others in their communities and further afield. As a company we benefit from their outstanding commitment, and it is great to see their dedication acknowledged at the highest level.”