I was born in Georgetown, Guyana, in the Caribbean — a world away from the spires and traditions of the City of London. When my family came to Britain in the late 1960s, we carried with us a belief that hard work, learning, and service could open any door. That belief has guided me throughout my life.
My journey began with the London Fire Brigade, where I served for nearly three decades. The work was demanding, sometimes dangerous, but always purposeful. I attended some of the capital’s most challenging incidents — among them the King’s Cross fire, the Marchioness disaster, and the 7/7 terrorist attacks. Each one left an indelible mark, not only on the city but on those of us who served it. From those moments, I learned that leadership is not about rank or title; it is about calm amid chaos, courage in adversity, and compassion in the aftermath.
This year, I was installed as Master of the Worshipful Company of Firefighters, one of the 113 historic Livery Companies of the City of London, whose lineage reaches back to 1155. It is both humbling and historic to be believed the first Black West Indian-born Master of a City Livery Company. To stand in St Mary-le-Bow Church, where generations of Masters have taken their oaths, is to feel the weight of history — and the hope of progress.
The Worshipful Company of Firefighters represents more than ceremony; it stands for service. Our motto, “Service, Fellowship, Harmony and Honour,” speaks to the heart of what binds us. The Company supports those within the Fire and Rescue community, promotes fire safety, and funds vital charitable work — from education to recovery.
One initiative especially close to my heart is our support for children and young people recovering from burn injuries. Each summer, the Firefighters Charity and the Children’s Burns Trust bring together young survivors at Burns Camp — a week of friendship, confidence-building, and laughter that reminds them they are more than their scars. Seeing their courage, and knowing the Firefighters’ Company helps make that possible, is one of the proudest aspects of my role.
Our commitment also extends to the next generation of fire service leaders through the Fire Cadet schemes across the country. These programmes give young people structure, pride, and purpose — qualities that echo the ancient apprentice traditions of the Livery movement itself.
Earlier this year, I took part in the British Red Cross “Escape the Tower” challenge, where I was ceremonially “arrested” at Bow Street and locked in the Tower of London until I raised £2,500 for charity. It was a light-hearted event with a serious purpose: to raise funds for people in crisis, whether displaced by war, disaster, or poverty. The response from friends and colleagues across the City was extraordinary, reminding me that compassion remains the common language of humanity.
To serve as Master in this era — as the City grows ever more diverse, inclusive, and globally connected — is both an honour and a responsibility. The Livery Companies have always reflected the world of work; now they also reflect the world around us. My hope is that others from all backgrounds will see in this story not an exception, but an invitation.
The City of London’s strength lies in its ability to evolve while holding true to timeless values: integrity, fellowship, and public service. My journey from the Caribbean to the City is part of that story — proof that heritage and hope can stand side by side, and that every door, no matter how old, can open to new light.
