I was born in Whipps Cross and grew up in the area.

Full statement

I love living in Leytonstone, and that is mainly down to the people who live here. The community is so active in supporting others, and in making it a creative and engaging place to live in. I founded Leytonstone Folk; a monthly community music group, and I am involved in a number of local events and community groups. I feel really lucky to live here and would feel so honoured if elected.

I have been a teacher for 17 years, and have worked across mainstream, SEN and alternative provisions. I currently oversee provision for children who have barriers to education. I am a qualified Special Needs Coordinator and have been a Governor at a number of schools. I have learnt so much in my career that I am so grateful for. However, I have seen the number of barriers increase for families who are looking to get the right support for their children, and teachers becoming more stretched each year. We all deserve better and this is something I am really passionate about creating positive change for.

Prior to last year, I had rented in London for 18 years, so I know how challenging the housing market is, and how unbalanced and unfair it is. Rent increases are also impacting local businesses, and we really need to be putting pressure on the government to implement rent and business rate controls/decreases.

The environment and effective climate action is an area that needs a lot more focus. There are fantastic local initiatives around sustainability and collective food growing in the borough, and I would love to support this further and create more opportunities for growing, alongside other sustainability initiatives.

I value kindness and honesty, and making sure that everyone has access to the services they need. I want to listen, to help raise other’s voices, and I want to see more collaboration around decision making.