Joanne was brought up on a council estate in Netherley, where in the 70’s, her mum, along with others from black and racially mixed families, were subject to harassment and intimidation by the National Front. In the 1980’s, growing up in Liverpool under Margaret Thatcher’s Government, made Joanne feel like she ‘wouldn’t amount to much’.

Joanne left school at 16 with no qualifications, but from her early 20s, through trade union activity, she got a thirst for learning and eventually completed a degree in Business Studies as a mature adult. Joanne has had a successful career as in the main an equality, diversity and inclusion practitioner.

In May 2020 Joanne made history when she was elected Mayor of Liverpool, becoming the first black woman to lead a UK city council. Stepping into a council wracked by scandal, alleged corruption and under inspection by Central Government, Mayor Joanne, with her diverse and youthful cabinet, brings a very different style of leadership with thriving communities at the heart of her vision. Join us for an insight into Joanne’s journey, the barriers she’s overcome and the support she’s received to become one of the most enigmatic people in British politics today.

This event is aimed at students and young people from black and racial minority communities but all are welcome.