I am proud to declare that I am not only a dedicated member of the PCS union for nearly 30 years, but also an active member of the Left Unity movement. This dual commitment underscores my dedication to advocating for the rights and well-being of workers, while also striving for a more equitable and just society.

My journey within the PCS union began during my early career at the Benefits agency, where I had the privilege of being introduced to the union by the late Sian Ruddick. It was through her invaluable support and guidance, as well as a personal crisis I faced, that I made the heartfelt decision to become a Representative.

Coming from a family with roots in East Africa, I witnessed firsthand the upheaval caused by Idi Amin’s rule, which forcibly expelled Asian residents. Seeking a better life, my father made the courageous journey to the United Kingdom, where he worked diligently in various industries to build a better future for our family. Alongside his professional pursuits, he actively engaged in the Sikh community, serving as the president of the Namdhari Gurdwara for several years. His commitment to community involvement and fighting for justice deeply influenced my own journey as an activist.

One of my earliest experiences as an activist occurred during a National Protest outside 10 Downing Street on October 10th, 1982. This protest aimed to challenge the discriminatory ruling of Lord Denning, who upheld a school’s decision to deny a Sikh boy the right to wear his turban. In solidarity with the Sikh community’s fight against discrimination, over 75,000 people signed a petition, sending a powerful message that equality and religious freedom are fundamental rights that must be protected.

Being a single parent, I faced numerous challenges while raising my two children. However, I remained steadfast in my commitment to show them that we all deserve equal rights. I actively involved them in demonstrations and picket lines, teaching them the values of justice, equality, and the power of collective action.

Throughout my journey within the PCS union, I have held various roles and responsibilities. Starting as a Local Site Rep and Health & Safety Rep at the Washwood Heath Jobcentre, I dedicated myself to ensuring the well-being and fair treatment of my colleagues. Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving as the Vice Chair of the Birmingham North Branch, a delegate to the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Chair of the Unite Against Fascism(UAF), a delegate to the Regional Committee, a member of the Black members committee, and a member of the General Executive Committee (GEC). These experiences have deepened my understanding of the inner workings of the union and the challenges faced by workers across various sectors.

With my experience and dedication to the union and the Left Unity movement, I believe I can make a valuable contribution as an experienced senior representative. I am eager to actively participate in district informal meetings, bringing my insights, expertise, and passion to the table. By being an active participant in these meetings, I hope to play an integral role in shaping the union’s strategies, decisions, and ensuring that the voices of workers are heard, respected, and aligned with the principles of Left Unity.