Support for ethnic minority councillors
Twenty-two years after the first LGA leadership event for black, Asian and ethnic minority (BAME) councillors, it is wonderful to see how the programme continues to empower elected members.
The ‘Focus on Leadership’ events have helped hundreds to develop their leadership journeys by equipping them with the skills, knowledge, confidence and insights they need to excel in their roles.
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing what happens after councillors attend the LGA’s BAME events.
Over the past few years in particular, it has been fantastic to see more and more course participants – from across the country and from all political parties and none – become leaders and deputy leaders in their local authorities, or take up other senior leadership positions within councils, Parliament and the House of Lords.
We hope that, by continuing to bring councillors together and creating supportive networks, providing opportunities to learn, sharing experiences and building confidence, we can help even more members achieve their own leadership ambitions in the years ahead.
This year’s BAME events come at a critical moment, when public trust in politics is under pressure and the call for authentic, values-driven leadership has never been louder.
The first session (31 October to 1 November) – a masterclass on ‘Claiming space, exercising leadership and shaping what comes next’ – also coincides with the end of Black History Month, which councils around the country have been marking with cultural community events, art and history exhibitions, guided walks and creative workshops.
“These events will provide councillors with vital insights, concepts, frameworks and practical hints and tips that will support their aspirations to become even more authentic and effective leaders”
The session will provide a high-challenge, high-support environment in which to explore these three key questions:
- What is changing around me and am I seeing the opportunities as clearly as the challenges?
- What am I here to change – what is my ‘noble cause’, and am I using my leadership and influence boldly enough to advance it?
- What must I confront, strengthen or change in myself to become the leader this moment requires?
The second session (20-21 February) focuses on developing the high-level political skills that strengthen influence and leadership authority.
Councillors will learn directly from notable black and Asian political leaders about leadership, power and progression, discuss collaborative leadership and alliance-building across party political difference, and develop a focused personal development plan to support leadership ambitions.
Taken individually or together, these events will provide councillors with vital insights, concepts, frameworks and practical hints and tips that will support their aspirations to become even more authentic and effective leaders.
Both events are designed to stand alone, but there is the opportunity to attend either one or both.
- Find out more about the LGA’s ‘Focus on Leadership’ events – for BAME councillors, but also for LGBTQ+ councillors, young councillors (aged 40 and under), and opposition leaders and deputy leaders. To book your place, please email grace.collins@local.gov.uk. Events take place at Warwick Conferences, Coventry, and cost £160 per person for one night’s accommodation, meals, tuition and materials.
‘Part of a supportive network’
Councillor Habib Tejan (Con) is Chair of the Business Support and Digital Overview and Scrutiny Committee at Medway Council
Attending the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Councillors event has been an inspiring experience.
It has given me the opportunity to connect with fellow councillors from diverse backgrounds, share experiences, and feel part of a supportive network that understands both the challenges and opportunities we encounter in public service.
Black History Month is important to me because it celebrates the achievements and contributions of Black communities, while also reminding us of the importance of inclusion, representation, and creating opportunities for future generations to thrive.
‘Sharing experiences has been empowering’
Councillor Elizabeth Ige is the Labour Group’s Chief Whip on the Royal Borough of Greenwich Council
As the first black Nigerian female Chief Whip in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, I have valued the LGA’s BAME councillors’ events as a source of learning, encouragement and support.
They have helped me develop my leadership skills and equipped me with the knowledge, confidence and practical resources to carry out the role effectively.
Connecting with fellow councillors and sharing experiences has been particularly empowering, strengthening my sense of purpose in serving my community.
For me, Black History Month is an opportunity to honour those who paved the way, celebrate our contributions and inspire the next generation to lead with pride and purpose.
‘Developing a grounding in leadership’
Councillor Paul Keene (Lewes, Green) is Chair of the Sussex Police and Crime Panel and Deputy Chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Committee
There were so many positive things I was part of at the BAME weekends I attended. I reconnected with councillors I already knew, and I learned from, and contributed to, discussions vital to developing a grounding in leadership.
The speakers and leaders, steeped in experience, generously passed on what they learned in power and in service to their communities. The stories, insights, advice, coaching and critique I was privy to have been invaluable for everything I have done since, not least when I had been elected and appointed to several positions.
The weekends help to imbue confidence and provide grounding in principled action. They should not be missed, for what is gained and shared, and for what is given by leaders and attendees alike. With the first weekend taking place in Black History Month, I can say these sessions are one more example of building on the work of those who came before.