I have been either a resident or closely associated with Havering and Redbridge most of my early and adult life.

Full statement

I was born in Redbridge, grew up in the borough, have family who have lived here all their lives, and worked throughout both areas. More than that, I am also passionate and genuinely motivated by making sure that outer east London gets the services, funding, and recognition it deserves. As director of Eastside Community Heritage, I've secured £1,500,000+ funding for community led projects in east London; it is vital that we continue to build social capital in our communities.

We are a changing community and an asset to London; our schools and children’s services demonstrate this and we need to make sure that it is recognised across Greater London. I am a candidate who believes in equality and I understand that the focus too often remains on central London leaving outer London boroughs feeling ignored. I can make a difference because I know the issues, concerns, and - most importantly - the residents of Havering and Redbridge.

My political career has been shaped by my campaigning activism on the doorstep, the party positions I have held, and my two terms as a Councillor in Newham and currently as Labour Party Group Chair and Councillor in Redbridge. I am an active street and doorstep campaigner; having also been sub agent for a number of elections. I understand the importance of effective organising. Nowhere was this more apparent than in my Barkingside campaign last year, which we successfully secured as a labour win for the first time in its 50 year history. I have also served a number of party positions, including West Ham CLP women’s officer (1993-1996). As Labour Group chair I am fortunate enough to preside over the largest Labour group in Redbridge history, with many new members. This has required some innovation and development in terms of building a collegiate culture of working.