‘I felt humbled by nomination for BEM’
HELPING Guernsey achieve Fairtrade Island status was a prime target for Steve Mauger in his long history of charitable service.
The 67-year-old has been awarded the British Empire Medal for his services to Fairtrade in Guernsey.
He was amazed to hear of his recognition, which he believed extended to Fairtrade across the Bailiwick. ‘I felt very humbled, especially when I thought of who might have nominated me, and people I felt might be more deserving of it,’ he said.
Mr Mauger first volunteered with Christian Aid more than 40 years ago, helping to organise Christian Aid Week and representing the charity as a committee member on Churches Together in Guernsey.
The visit to Guernsey in 2005 of then Fairtrade patron and BBC journalist George Alagiah had been an inspiration, he said.
‘He encouraged us to seek Fairtrade Island status and we set up a steering group consisting of people from all walks of life that same year,’ said Mr Mauger.
Then Bailiff Sir de Vic Carey was the first Fairtrade Guernsey patron, and the States formally committed Guernsey to Fairtrade Island status in March 2006.
Mr Mauger spent most of his working life as an advertising executive with the Guernsey Press, and the last 10 years dealing with memberships at Beau Sejour.
‘Richard Digard [then Guernsey Press editor] was very supportive and ran a campaign for us and there was a terrific sign up and engagement,’ he said.
Mr Mauger remains a steering group member to this day and has had spells as chairman and secretary.
The forerunner of Fairtrade – Traidcraft – started more than 40 years ago by importing craft work from developing countries that was primarily sold through churches. It was expanded later to include tea, coffee and chocolate.
‘When the Fairtrade Foundation was formed in 1992 we had the branding and the likes of Morrisons, the Co-op, M&S and Waitrose started to include Fairtrade products in their offering,’ said Mr Mauger.
‘All these producers want is to make a fair and honest living and unless we address the root cause of poverty the demand on charities will only increase.
‘I’m excited by Fairtrade as it’s a way we can redress the balance.’
