Neena Mahal

Education, Education, Education and don't be dependent on men was the message Neena's father drummed into his five daughters

Originally from Pakistan her father moved to Kenya as an orphan and became director of labour for the port of Nairobi.

After marrying in Kenya the family moved to Glasgow in the 1960's. When he was turned down for a senior position at Clydeport Authority Neena's father became a bus conductor before running his own shop near Glasgow University.

Tonight Neena addressed The Rotary Club of Strathaven and told the story of her life and how she remains true to her late father's dictums and is now bringing up her own daughters in the same fashion

"Grasp every opportunity with both hands" said Neena who graduated from Glasgow University and has served on many public service boards including BBC Scotland and Children in Need.

Neena is currently Chair of NHS Lanarkshire and spoke enthusiastically about plans to improve the service by concentrating on centres of excellence and improving communications through listening to the views of people on the front-line.