Celebrating Black History Month: A Journey of Leadership, Inclusion and Purpose

From Two Days a Week to Head of Services.

Sonias career began unexpectedly. After losing her job of 23 years in the civil service, she was simply looking for a part-time role while caring for her granddaughter. She started at Age UK  Ealing  two days a week as a trainee I&A advisor and volunteered in finance. But her dedication quickly led to a paid role, then team leader, Head of I&A, and eventually Head of Services.

“I wasn’t looking for a career,” Sonia reflects. “But once my granddaughter went to nursery, I had more time—and the role grew with me.”

Eventually, Sonia moved on from Ealing Age UK after 14 years, seeking new challenges and direction. That’s when she joined Age UK  HHB, drawn by its different way of working and fresh perspective.

Creating Space for Others to Grow

One of Sonia’s proudest achievements is her work on positive action for underrepresented staff. She helped build a leadership course specifically for ethnic minorities—a 4  day programme designed to help participants realise their potential and overcome barriers.

“It was about creating a safe space,” she says. “Helping people move to the next level, recognising their value, and giving them the tools to lead.”

What Black History Month Means to Me

For Sonia, Black History Month is both celebration and reflection.

“It’s a shame it’s only one month,” she says. “But it’s a time to showcase the talent in the Black community. In these troubling times, especially for non-white British people, racism and prejudice are more visible again. Young people need to know they are valuable, that they deserve the same opportunities, and shouldn’t be judged for their culture.”

Rooted in Family, Driven by Care

Sonia’s values were shaped early on. As the youngest of eight children, she watched her parents use their limited resources to support family in Jamaica.

“It made me realise how important it is to care for each other,” she says. “People should feel included, understood, and cared for.”

Heritage and Leadership

Sonia’s leadership style is deeply influenced by her heritage.

“My style is soft,” she explains. “I have a clear line about what’s right and wrong, but I’m flexible because inclusion matters. I believe in bringing people with me, using the team’s strengths, and being honest about what I don’t know.”

30 Years of Service, Still Going Strong

From benefits advisor to learning consultant in the civil service, and now Head of Services at Age UK HHB, Sonia’s journey spans over two decades of public service. Her story is a reminder that leadership isn’t always planned—it’s built through care, courage, and community.