Asian woman does herself justice

Revinder Johal becomes the first Asian woman from the pilot Operation Black Vote and Department for Constitutional Affairs Magistrates Shadowing Scheme to be appointed as a magistrate.

Speaking at the appointment ceremony at Birmingham Council House earlier this month, Revinder Johal said, "The Magistrates Shadowing Scheme is important because it provided a valuable opportunity for me to gain an insight into the magistracy. I strongly believe that it is important to have more Black and other minority ethnic magistrates (BME)to ensure that the Bench is more representative and has a better understanding and awareness of cultural diversity. I feel that by becoming a magistrate, I can make a positive contribution and give something back to the community."

Revinder Johal pictured with her mentor magistrate, Adrian Dence outside Birmingham Magistrates' Court.

Adrian Dence, Revinder's mentor magistrate, expressed his delight at her appointment. He stated that "It is very important that the cornerstone of our judiciary is representative of all communities and I am thrilled that Revinder has been appointed as a magistrate." Now in his fifth year as a magistrate, Adrian remarked that, "being involved in the magistracy and having the opportunity to make a contribution to the society you live in is an enormous privilege. The role is demanding, but very rewarding and if you have the opportunity, you must grab it." He is now looking forward to sitting alongside Revinder on the Bench.

Simon Woolley of Operation Black Vote said, "It's excellent news. Revinder has shown herself to be a role model not only to the Asian community, but to wider society too. Operation Black Vote's shadowing schemes will continue to produce the next generation of BME decision makers."

Read about Revinder's shadowing experience