Sylvia Maharaj - Well done Ma’am

Sylvia Maharaj is well used to being called ‘Ma’am’. Serving as a magistrate for over 20 years in North East London, she was often referred to as Ma’am when performing her magisterial responsibilities. This week, she was named in the New Year’s Honours List and will receive an OBE for services to the Administration of Justice.

OBV are delighted to congratulate Sylvia on the award and pleased that her many years of exemplary voluntary service have been recognised. A long time friend of OBV, Sylvia was a mentor on OBV’s Magistrates Shadowing Scheme which is designed to increase awareness of the Magistracy and increase the number of BME magistrates.

She has worked tirelessly contributing to improving various aspects of the Criminal Justice System, including being a member of the Lord Chancellor’s Advisory Committee and serving as the Chair of the Community Consultative Forum.

Francine Fernandes, Head of Shadowing Schemes for OBV said,

"Sylvia’s passion for the community should be bottled up and sold. This honour recognises her endeavours to improve the society we live in and is a fitting accolade to her many years of service. Well done Ma’am and very much deserved."

Francine Fernandes