What got you interested in working in Barking and Dagenham?
I have worked in and around the borough since 1986. I’m a local charity leader and have been a resident for 3 years.
What challenges do you think you might face in this role?
I’m delighted to say that in my role as Chair of BD Renew I was part of the transition to BD Giving. There are many challenges in establishing a new organisation, funding being the main one, but we have made it through and excited that we are focusing on participatory grant making.
What are your hopes for the borough?
To see transformation for people who live here today. Seeing stubborn issues of disadvantage being tackled as a community together, enabling local people to be the shapers of change. In additoin, want to see the borough being a welcoming place for people who will move in tomorrow.
How do you think the community can help achieve those goals?
Everything in every way and that is something we need to explore more.
