As of the 2023/24 Municipal Year, Jyotsna Islam proudly serves as the Mayor of the London Borough of Redbridge, bringing her passion for community service and wealth of experience to this esteemed position. Let’s delve into the life and accomplishments of this remarkable individual.
1. Background and Early Life:
Jyotsna Islam, a devoted Labour Party member, hails from Aldborough ward and has been an integral part of Redbridge since the 1980s. A qualified social worker specializing in adult care, she has dedicated over 35 years to local government, managing frontline services and championing the needs of vulnerable individuals.
2. Community Engagement and Advocacy:
Serving as a Councillor for Aldborough since 2018, Jyotsna has worked tirelessly to improve the borough. Her roles as Chair for Redbridge Planning Committee and member of the Health Scrutiny Committee showcase her commitment to addressing crucial issues such as housing and healthcare within Redbridge.
3. Mayoral Priorities and Charitable Endeavors:
As Mayor, Jyotsna has chosen to support two vital charities: London Air Ambulance and ELHAP. The former provides emergency medical services, crucially impacting the lives of Redbridge residents, while the latter focuses on empowering disabled and disadvantaged children and families in the local area.
4. Educational and Cultural Contributions:
Jyotsna’s educational journey took her from Ali Amjad Government High School in Bangladesh to an MBA in London. Beyond her professional life, she is a co-founder of the Redbridge Boishakhi Mela Trust, showcasing her commitment to preserving and celebrating the cultural richness of the Bangladeshi community.
5. Recognition and Achievements:
Elected as Mayor in May 2023, Jyotsna Islam stands as a testament to the success of Bangladeshi women in mainstream British politics. Her dedication, alongside her husband Councillor Shams Islam, has been acknowledged and celebrated by the local residents and leaders alike.
In her own words, “Being nominated as Redbridge’s Mayor is a tremendous honour and immense responsibility. I will endeavour to be fair, supportive, and a fun, approachable mayor.” Jyotsna Islam’s mayoralty promises a year of advocacy, community engagement, and impactful initiatives for the people of Redbridge.
As she embarks on this significant journey, we extend our sincere congratulations to Mayor Jyotsna Islam, confident in her ability to lead with wisdom and compassion, making a lasting positive impact on the London Borough of Redbridge.
