MEET THE MAYOR
‘ It is my duty to give back ’
“ I feel privileged to serve in Ealing , the borough has given me so much ,” said the borough ’ s new mayor when he spoke to Edel Meremikwu .
Councillor Munir Ahmed was formally elected as the mayor of Ealing in May . As the borough ’ s ‘ first citizen ’, he is responsible for civic ceremonial duties within the borough and attends a wide range of events and key functions .
“ When I first came to Ealing , I had senior people in my community who guided me , and showed me the best way to live life ,” said Councillor Ahmed . “ I learned the importance of legacy . How to raise my children , build my business and work life – this was an inspiration .
“ I thought that if there were people before me that helped me to be where I am , then it ’ s my responsibility to help the next generation . So , I decided , having been successful in my business and family life , that it is my duty to now give back and serve the community .
“ Since serving as a councillor , I have always kept my emails open . I never have a message that says I am unavailable ; I am always here for people in the community .”
Councillor Ahmed has been a Labour councillor for Perivale ward since 2014 and a member of several committees . He has also chaired the governors at Vicars Green Primary school in Perivale for almost 15 years .
He added : “ I want to help residents to understand the council better . People are not familiar with local government and how the system actually works , what councillors do , and how they can get help from their local representatives . I would like to spread as much information about this as I can ; and meet as many people and organisations as possible .”
HELPING FAMILIES IN EALING Home Start is the mayor ’ s chosen charity for his year in office until April 2022 .
Councillor Ahmed said : “ As we are just coming out of the pandemic ,
The mayor in his chamber – photo © Henrique Maia
Home Start is the best choice of charity to help families . Especially those who have suffered during this difficult period , whether it ’ s through domestic issues , mental health issues , partnership issues , caring for children or challenges as single parents .”
His wife Fakhirah has been accompanying him as mayoress ; and his youngest daughter Alveena is also his consort and will accompany him when required . Meanwhile , he is being assisted in his duties by Councillor Mohinder Midha , who has been appointed deputy mayor . Read the full interview with the mayor at aroundealing . com / news / mayor-ahmed
46 around ealing Autumn 2021
Photo by Henrique Guto