• Magistrate,
• Mental Health Support Worker,
• Role model,
• Liberal Democrat Councillor in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.

I joined the Lib Dems in 1999, whilst I was still studying for my Psychology degree. I believed it was unfair to place the financial burden of Tuition fees on students, then when the Labour Government broke their promise of not introducing Top-up fees, this and for many other reasons I wanted to become more involved in politics.

I started by helping the current Ward Councillors in delivering focuses, and then began to petition on everyday topics, in the course of that I picked up casework, which I followed through by contacting the right Officers in the Council, this sometimes involved chasing Officers, by making several phone calls. I was attracted to standing as a councillor so I could do more of this and become the voice of my community, to deliver change and to act as a positive role model.

I really got a feel for elections, in the run-up to the General Election campaign, the atmosphere, the buzz, the early days and late nights of delivering, canvassing, made me feel that I was doing something worthwhile.

I did have reservations about standing for council but I was well supported by the Group and my family. I thought I was too young to be a Councillor, then only 23 years old, but with training and a supportive group I became more confident and grew into my role as a local campaigner.

When I first became a Councillor I hoped to achieve a number of things namely, a new park facility, a library, and a day centre for the elderly. Once elected, it soon becomes a reality that cost and finance sometimes means that you can’t always achieve want you hope for.

The most rewarding aspect of being a Councillor is meeting people, either on the doorstep, through voluntary groups or by working with outside bodies. We are in the very privileged position of being able to make a difference to people lives; this has its own challenges at times, but is very worthwhile.

I would recommend the role to anyone, be bold, be confident, and remember that you are doing one of the most rewarding jobs. There may be late nights meetings, a lot of debate, but its worthwhile, when you get the right decision. Having the opportunity to represent a community of people is that best things I have ever done and the most proudest part of my life, it really has made me the person I am today.

I work for the NHS as a Support Time Recovery worker for people who suffer with mental health conditions. I am also a Magistrate for the East Berkshire Bench, a member of the government Task Force BAME, the main objective is to encourage Black, Asian, Minority, Ethnic into public life  but I do have a normal life too. I am married, I like watching movies, going out for dinner, and seeing my adorable nephew and niece.