Words by Baroness Sandip Verma
I am often asked what makes a good leader, and this is an ever increasingly difficult question to answer. What I think I am beginning to ask myself is how do we ensure that those in positions of power, leadership, and decision-making are held accountable for their actions, decisions, and outcomes long after they fade away into the sunset.
The consequences of poor decision-making, often leave long term impacts that can change the course of how others react. I recognised early on in my life that my voice and that of people that looked like me was largely silent at worst and a quiet whisper at best. As a strong advocate for gender equality, inclusion, and equity in decisions made on my behalf, you have to be seen, heard, and counted.
It is critical that more women are at the heart of political decision making, taking leadership roles in business and shaping social and emotional intelligence. We are in a race with AI and digital communities taking up a bigger role in our lives. And yet we know large numbers of people will remain outside on the margins, unable to take advantage of the benefits of technology, and become increasingly dispossessed and helpless.
History reminds us all over and over again that anger and hopelessness always lead to conflict and tyranny. I urge more women to get involved in politics, at all levels. However difficult the journey is, unless women are prepared to bring in an alternative lens, the decisions will continue to be made by a few on the many. I came into politics when there were some, but not many women both nationally, although probably a little more at local level, and it was tough, sometimes disheartening. Often the pushbacks came from your own communities, but my tenacity and self-belief has been the driver in knowing I can make a difference.
The journey both in my business and political life has been supported by some incredible advocates both men and women. We all travel through our own journeys, and my own has shaped me. Being born a female in a culture that still sadly in large parts differentiates on how they treat their boys and girls has of course provided me with experiences that have helped keep me focused on the impact and outcomes that need to be achieved.
I believe strongly in partnerships and collaborating with others whether as individuals or organisations. There are greater chances for shifting the dial by collectively campaigning, creating movements of positive change. My journey has been fully supported by my family, my husband, Ashok and our children, who have never wavered when times got tough, especially in the beginning. Entering national politics, those moments occurred frequently. However, it also opened me up to so many new friends and supporters, and their genuine desire to see a country truly reflective of her citizens.
Who would have thought that we would see a Prime Minister of Indian heritage, with Rishi Sunak and the first female, Kemi Badenoch MP, of Nigerian heritage as the opposition leader of UK from the Conservative Party. The party that not that so long ago struggled to attract females and people from minority communities has led the way. Political parties in UK recognise the impact of the changing demographics on political debate.
I have had the privilege of serving in both government and opposition in departments that have enabled me to input and shape laws, provide platforms for discussions. and ensure outreach to all communities across our great country.
I was fortunate to have my birth in India, the largest democracy in the world and I have the honour of serving in the oldest democracy on earth. Our countries are bound by many relationships over many years. The greatest strength both countries enjoy, is the love and commitment of the Indian Diaspora that has remained loyal to both their country of heritage and their country of adoption. The living bridge remains alive and strong, contributing positively both economically, socially and culture. Our strength lies in our confidence of who we are, where we are from, and what we are.
Baroness Sandip Verma is President of the UK All Party Parliament Group (APPG) India. An appointed member of the House of Lords, she is Ministerial Champion for Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls Overseas, a role that chairs the UN Women’s national committee.
