My Journey to Becoming Labour’s Candidate for Dore & Totley

Last week, something I have worked towards finally came true: I was selected as the Labour candidate for Dore & Totley Ward. This community means so much to me, and the opportunity to stand for election here is humbling and exciting. I want to serve this area and help make it safer, cleaner, and happier for everyone who calls it home.

I'm not a career politician, and I think that is one of my greatest strengths. My journey to this point has been shaped not by learning political history and strategy at university or carry the bags of politicians, but by years of volunteering, community work, and grassroots campaigning. From a young age, I felt a pull to contribute positively to the world around me, whether through charity work, supporting local initiatives, or standing up for fairness and justice. These experiences taught me the importance of listening, working collaboratively, and rolling up your sleeves to make change happen.

I have been volunteering since I was a child. Working for voluntary organisations and committees, giving my time and energy to help them grow and thrive. That work has given me a strong foundation in bringing people together, understanding different perspectives, and finding practical ways forward. Eventually, though, I began to feel that I wanted to do more. I wanted to take the next step and make a difference to communities in a bigger way. That’s why I made the decision to put myself forward as a councillor and it could only ever have been for Dore & Totley, the place where I live, am raising my family, and feel so deeply connected.

When I first began to consider standing, I spoke with friends and contacts who had experience in politics to understand more about what the role involves. I then approached the Labour Party to express my interest. Labour’s values of social justice, equality, and fairness have always been important to me. Having campaigned for human rights and environmental issues for many years, it felt natural to stand with a party that shares these priorities and puts people at the heart of everything it does.

From there, I began meeting with local Labour members over coffee and conversations. What struck me most was the warmth and encouragement I received. People were generous with their time, keen to share advice, and supportive of my decision to step up. They also helped me connect with others across the city who could give me insights into the real challenges and opportunities facing our community.

The next stage was to apply to become an approved candidate. This meant a long application form, interviews and checks to ensure that I was a person of good standing and that I understood the responsibilities of public office. Once approved, I was asked to produce a statement for wider sharing about who I am and what I stand for. From there, I was shortlisted alongside three other potential candidates to be interviewed by local Labour members.

It was a nerve-wracking experience, but one I will never forget. I had a week to speak to members, share my vision, and explain why I wanted to represent them. On the night of the interview itself, I was both anxious and determined. When the result was announced, and I was chosen as the candidate, I felt both joy and gratitude. It is the endorsement of my abilities, passion and the commitment I bring to this role that means the world. A group of wonderful, knowledgeable people choose me to represent them.

Now, the real work begins. Over the coming months, my task is to listen to you, the residents of Dore & Totley Ward. I want to hear about what matters most to you, whether it’s transport, housing, green spaces, or community safety. My promise is simple: if elected, I will work tirelessly to stand up for your priorities, amplify your voices, and help build a local community, and a city, that works better for everyone.

This is our community, and together we can make it thrive!