The change that must happen

At a packed hall at Goldsmith’s college, Lewisham’s first directly elected Mayor Sir Steve Bullock (pictured above) told the audience that the business case for a scheme that nurtures BME civic talent is overwhelming.

He was speaking at the launch of the borough's collaboration with Operation Black Vote that seeks to ensure that local civic bodies are inclusive and representative. ‘In a multicultural borough such as ours, when I walk into the chamber and see so few BME faces I know that it isn’t right. This scheme will help address that deficit’. He also highlighted the fact that the borough has 94 schools in the area, which need much more BME governance.

OBV’s Simon Woolley stated "When we ran this project last year a deluge of talent, hitherto unseen, came forward. Graduates from that programme are now playing their role on education boards, police panels, and in the voluntary sector. Local people have made this a blue print for success".

Local MPs Heidi Alexander and Joan Ruddock were also supporting the initiative. Both spoke about the need to  break through the glass ceiling and also to put ourselves forward rather than wait to be asked. Two former participants, Jenni Steele and Mike Lewis, both spoke about what they had gained from being on the scheme and how it equipped them with the skills and knowledge to make sure that they are playing an active role in Lewisham’s civic society. They also encouraged anyone who was thinking about getting involved to do so.

The aim of the scheme is to nurture Lewisham’s future leaders and ensure that the BME voice is heard within the borough. If you want to make a difference in your borough, then this scheme is for you. We’re looking for 40 enthusiastic BME individuals, aged 18 and above to gain an insight into up to five areas of public life covering Education, Health, Politics, the Criminal Justice System and the Voluntary and Community sector.

To find out more or to request an application pack please contact civicleaders@obv.org.uk or 0208 983 5426. Alternatively you can download the application form and programme outline.

Deadline for completed application is Monday 28th February 2011 at 5pm.