Kanzen for Life has been recognised for its pioneering work across Tayside and Fife.
A Dundee charity is celebrating double success after being shortlisted for a prestigious award and gaining international recognition from the United Nations.
Kanzen for Life, alongside a shortlisting for the Scottish Social Enterprise of the Year, has discovered it is now a recognised organisation on the United Nations Partner Portal (UNPP), the global platform connecting civil society organisations with UN agencies, programmes and initiatives.
Passing the United Nations due diligence standards demonstrates that Kanzen for Life meets international benchmarks in governance, transparency, financial management and operational capacity.
Roy O’Kane, Chief Officer of Kanzen for Life, said: “This has been a momentous week for us. First, we were so proud to be recognised at a national level for the work we’re doing in communities across Scotland with the award shortlisting. Then we found out about being recognised by the UN.
“These are incredible achievements and everyone associated with Kanzen should be proud of the work we do and the plans we have for the future.”
The United Nations Partner Portal is used by agencies including UNICEF, UNHCR, the World Food Programme, UN Women and others to identify and engage with trusted organisations worldwide.
The organisation’s recognised status means it can now apply for partnership opportunities and funding across the UN system, with the potential to strengthen and expand its community impact.
The charity supports more than 2,000 people of all ages every week across Tayside and Fife.
Kanzen delivers targeted programmes in health and wellbeing, physical activity, leadership development and social connection, with a strong focus on tackling poverty, reducing inactivity and empowering community-led solutions.
Roy added: “At the heart of Kanzen for Life is a belief that everyone deserves the chance to be active, to feel connected and to realise their potential.
“We are rooted in our local communities, but now we have proven that our charity operates to the highest international standards. Passing the United Nations due diligence process means we are ready to collaborate on the global stage and bring those opportunities home to benefit the people we serve.
“We have shown that a grassroots charity from Dundee can meet the same governance and operational standards as global NGOs. This is a win for our communities and a statement that local action can meet and match the highest expectations in the world.”
The double success comes at a time of significant growth for Kanzen for Life following the launch of the Kanzen for Life Centre in Dundee and the expansion of key initiatives targeting young people, families and older adults facing disadvantage.
In early 2025, Kanzen for Life unveiled plans for a £1million investment in a new hub in Stobswell in Dundee. This major capital project will create a permanent home for inclusive and accessible health, wellbeing and leadership services. The Kanzen for Life Centre will serve as a regional flagship for innovation, prevention and community empowerment.
With the change of use now approved, the project will enter its next phase of continued capital fundraising and development. The total estimated value of the development stands at more than £1m, including the creation of 10 new jobs and a substantial increase in the charity’s capacity to deliver impactful services for people of all ages.
