Meet the new Mayor of Ealing, Councillor Mohinder Midha, who was formally elected to the position in May.
Councillor Midha has been in politics for more than 12 years, serving as a Labour councillor for Dormers Wells and Lady Margaret wards in that time.
Why did she want to become the borough’s ‘first citizen’? We found out.
“I have had the privilege of working with the incredibly diverse and vibrant community of Southall in my roles as ward councillor for Dormers Wells and Lady Margaret,” said Councillor Midha. “As mayor, I am looking forward to getting to know more about the wider borough and the people who live here. I want to represent the whole community and play a key role in bringing our communities together.”
Being a good mayor
Councillor Midha understands that her role is an important link between the council and the community. She said: “I am confident that I can help the local people in Ealing. I am here to listen and help wherever I can.
“It has been a great help that I have been a councillor, because I have a good understanding of how the system works. I also learned the needs of the local people in Southall. Some people prefer for me to go to them personally, rather than by phone or email. Others prefer for me to speak to them in Punjabi or Urdu, rather than in English.”
Giving back to the community
Giving back to the community has always been important for Councillor Midha in both her work and personal life. She said: “Southall is one of the most deprived areas in the borough. I am always trying to do more things for the Southall community. I was a radio broadcaster for 20 years on community station, Desi Radio. I am also a member of several associations in Southall, including the Indian Worker Association, and run a ladies’ club once a week.”
Educating young people is another issue of particular concern for Councillor Midha.
“I am passionate in preparing young minds for the future,” she said. “I am a school governor in a few different schools within the borough including Blair Peach Primary School, Durdan’s Park Primary School and Villiers High School. One of my favourite parts about being mayor is attending children’s awards ceremonies. Last week, I handed out some very well-deserved sports awards and certificates in Greenford. It was fantastic to meet the children, hear their stories, especially as I love sports myself.”
Helping families
During her year as mayor, Councillor Midha will hold events to raise money to support her chosen local charity, Heartlink Ealing.
She said: “This is a charity close to my heart, because South Asians have a high risk for heart disease and diabetes. I hope that I can help support the great work that they do for the community, especially the South Asian people.”
Over the coming weeks and months, the mayor will be in attendance in formal robe and chain (as seen in this picture), to preside over citizenship ceremonies, and community meetings, as well as chairing meetings at full council.
If you see her when you are out and about, say hello because she wants to hear from you. She is here to serve the community.
