This Women’s History Month and following International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating an extraordinary Islington trailblazer: Councillor Valda James.

Part of the Windrush generation, Valda, 98, arrived in the UK from Jamaica and went on to make history in our borough. In 1986 she became the first Black woman elected to Islington Council, and in 1988 she became Islington’s first Black Mayor.

Her leadership opened doors, challenged barriers, and helped shape a more inclusive future for women and our whole community.

Reflecting on her time in office, she said: “I enjoyed being the mayor, I remember I felt so proud wearing that chain.

When I got elected, I didn’t know I was making history. I just wanted to do the job properly. I was the only black woman there [in the chamber] and I was proud to be the first.”

Mayor Jason Jackson said: “I want to recognise and appreciate the trailblazer Mayor Valda James, the first Black Mayor of Islington and proud daughter of Jamaica, a Windrush pioneer and a pillar of her borough.

You set the standard. You broke through so many barriers and glass ceilings: as a Black woman, as a woman, as a hardworking single mother, and as someone who always gave back to the community.”

Photos and video: “Standing firm in power and pride” event by Residents without Borders, Oct 2025