Favour makes history as first African chairman

The first African chairman has been announced at Watford Borough Council with Councillor Favour Ezeifedi taking on the role.

Councillor Sohail Bashir was named Vice-Chairman at the annual council meeting. Representing the Holywell ward in West Watford, Favour has lived in the town for over a decade and was first elected as a councillor in 2015. This role has enabled her to participate in an array of volunteering opportunities, events and council-related activities.

Favour brings a wealth of experience to her new role, with a professional background as a social worker and psychotherapist. Her current position is Joint Service Lead for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) with East London NHS Foundation Trust covering Tower Hamlets.

Her work has given her deep insight into the needs of vulnerable individuals and families. She is also the author of The First Citizen, a powerful story reflecting themes of resilience and leadership inspired by her own journey.

The new Chairman has chosen Eternity Community CIC, One Vision’s Cancer Champions Project and the Watford African Caribbean Association as her charities, and she will spend her year in office fundraising for them. Favour has been deeply involved with these organisations for many years, dedicating a lot of time to volunteering, and her hard work has impacted many people’s lives in meaningful ways.

• Eternity Community CIC – empowers families and individuals through health awareness, business support and community events like sports and arts.

• One Vision and Macmillan Cancer Support – tackle cancer inequalities through the Cancer Champions Project, supporting ethnic minority communities in Watford and Three Rivers.

• Watford African Caribbean Association – Thrive Youth Project supports young people with mentoring, creative arts, sports and family services to build confidence and opportunity.

She said: “I am honoured to serve as the Chairman of Watford Borough Council, and to be the first African woman to hold this position. As I take on this role, I am proud to represent the voices and aspirations of all residents, regardless of background.

“Through my volunteering and work with the community, I have witnessed firsthand the power of unity and compassion in bringing about positive change. I am therefore committed to using my platform to continue supporting my chosen charities and so many more organisation in Watford, whose invaluable work strengthens the fabric of our town.”

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “I’m really pleased that Favour and Sohail are stepping into these significant roles as the council’s representatives. Their appointments reflect the broad range of backgrounds of our elected council members, and the inclusive nature of our town. They will become important representatives of our town and will visit many of the vibrant community organisations that make Watford so special.”

Favour will be carrying out fundraising events throughout the year and wants any local businesses or groups that could help with sponsorship, venue support and fundraising to contact her at chairman@watford.gov.uk.