LOCAL POLITICS: Dr Susan Fajana – Thomas been a councillor with Hackney council since 2010
Dr Susan Fajana-Thomas is a British-Nigerian and has lived in Stoke Newington with her family for over 30 years. She has represented Stoke Newington Ward on the council since 2010 is the Cabinet Member for Community Safety, with responsibilities for crime reduction and antisocial behaviour. Cllr. Susan had a Q&A session with African Voice.
1. Why did you relocate to the UK?
I relocated to the UK for love. I was living out my dream in Nigeria with a fantastic job as a Presenter with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). After meeting a man who lives in Europe, he wanted me to relocate so we could be closer to each other.
2. How long did it take you to settle in the UK, and what were the challenges? What was your first job in the UK and what is your current vocation?
It took me over five years to settle in the UK. It was difficult back then, this was over thirty years ago. My partner and I found ourselves at a crossroads. I was pregnant, and things didn’t work out. I became a single mother, living on a minimal income with support from friends and family. I struggled and almost gave up, but I promised myself that I could rebuild my life, and I did.
Like many Africans at the time, my first job was as a cleaner in a college. Today, I’m proud to say that I’m a British politician and a founder of a non-for- profit organisation.
3. For how long have you been living in the UK?
Over three decades.
4. What made you decide not to return to your country of origin?
As a woman of strength, my unwavering will and unyielding determination have always been my driving force in achieving my goals. I was determined not to allow my failed relationship to define me as a failure. After facing my challenges with courage and resilience, I settled into London life, made friends, and fell in love with a man who adored me and my son.
5. What is the one thing you missed about home?
The one thing I miss most about Nigeria is my family but I also miss my friends, the food and the unique social interactions.
6. What are the changes you would want to see in your country of origin?
We all know some of the most important problems facing Nigeria today that the government and people of Nigeria should address to make changes. I would like the government to address issues of insecurity, the economy and corruption.
It is crucial that Nigerian politicians prioritise selflessness over selfishness and take effective measures to combat corruption.
7. What has been your proudest contribution to the British society?
It’s difficult to choose just one thing when there are so many outstanding contributions. I am grateful to God for giving me the ability to bring about positive change in my community. I have been involved in various initiatives, such as supporting those who live in social housing, helping Asylum Seekers and working with young people.
My advocacy for gender equality and women’s empowerment is reflected in my community, campaigning activities, and charity work. This includes encouraging women’s political participation by providing leadership training and mentorship for young women.
I’m currently a member of the Hackney Council, and in my cabinet position. I have worked with the police to see an overall reduction in crime in my area and pioneered a partnership approach to end violence against women and girls.
I founded the SFT Foundation Trust to support families, particularly young people. Following a worrying increase in gang violence across London in 2018, I refocused the aims of the charity work to include mentoring young black boys to prevent serious violence whilst safeguarding them from being exploited by gang violence. This work has supported many young people to feel empowered to take personal responsibility to fulfil their potential whilst ensuring that stakeholders, including the police, fulfil their duty to protect communities from harm.
I am honoured to have received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the New Year Honours 2023 for my contributions to British society.
8. Are you optimistic on the political situation in your country of origin?
I cannot say that I’m very optimistic, but I believe that anything is possible and we should never say never!
9. If you have to change anything in your country of origin, what would that be?
The democratic system is one. People want good governance and politicians who are more responsive to their needs, selfless, competent, and honest, among other factors.
10. What do you most admire in your country of origin? And what do dislike most?
I love the people for their resilience, unwavering will, and unyielding determination to succeed. I dislike the corruption at every area of the system in Nigeria.
11. What is your opinion on the mass migration out of Africa (Japa Syndrome) and what do you think will improve the economy of your country of origin?
Unfortunately, people are leaving Nigeria for greater opportunities because they have given up hope of any development and a better Nigeria.
Many are Japa for genuine opportunities, while others seek quick money and fame instead of fulfilment.
12. How can those in the diaspora help to improve the image of your country of origin?
They need to see themselves as representatives of their country, striving to make positive contributions to their adopted homes.
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