Throughout history, Montserratian women in the UK have been at the forefront of change, breaking barriers, leading movements, and shaping the future in ways that continue to inspire generations. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, the Montserrat Government UK Office proudly honours the extraordinary contributions of Montserratian women in the UK who have left an indelible mark in politics, education, social justice, and community advocacy. Their stories are not just tales of individual success but powerful narratives of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to public service.
From pioneering political firsts to championing equality and cultural representation, these remarkable women have played an instrumental role in shaping British society while staying deeply connected to their Montserratian roots. This month, we shine a spotlight on their accomplishments, ensuring that their legacies are not only celebrated but also serve as beacons of empowerment for the next generation.
Jeanette Arnold OBE: A Legacy of Advocacy and Leadership
Born in Montserrat and trained as a nurse, Jeanette Arnold OBE has dedicated her career to both healthcare and public service. She served as the Regional Director of Services and Special Adviser (Equalities) to the General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, advocating for fair and inclusive healthcare policies.
Beyond nursing, Arnold made her mark in politics as a Labour Co-op politician, serving as the Chair of the London Assembly for five terms. From 2004 to 2021, she represented the North East constituency (Hackney, Islington, and Waltham Forest), championing causes close to her heart. As Chair of the Cultural Strategy Group for London, she played a vital role in shaping the city’s cultural landscape and was instrumental in bringing the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games to London.
Arnold’s dedication to social justice saw her campaign for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), the improvement of the Gospel Oak to Barking rail services, and the eradication of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Recognised for her impact, she was named one of Britain’s 50 most influential Black women by New Nation in 2007.
Lydia Simmons OBE: A Trailblazer in British Politics
Lydia Simmons OBE, born in Montserrat in 1938, moved to Slough, England, in 1960 as part of the Windrush generation. She dedicated nearly three decades to local politics, becoming the first Black person and first Afro-Caribbean woman to be elected Mayor in England when she assumed office as Mayor of Slough in 1984.
A Labour Party politician, Simmons served on Slough Borough Council from 1979 to 1994 and again from 1999 to 2007, becoming its longest-serving member. Her advocacy focused on marginalised communities, ensuring that underrepresented voices had a seat at the table. In recognition of her tireless service, she was awarded an OBE and honoured with Lydia Court, an 11-home council flat development built in her name in Slough in 2016.
Deputy Mayor Antoinette Bramble: Champion for Education and Social Justice
Deputy Mayor Antoinette Bramble, daughter of a Montserratian father who arrived in the UK as part of the Windrush generation, has carved a path of excellence in both education and politics. Starting as a nursery nurse, she worked her way up as a teaching assistant, SENCo, and assistant headteacher, before transitioning into politics.
Bramble is renowned for pioneering the diverse curriculum, now a model taught globally. As Cabinet Member for Education in Hackney, she launched the ‘Improving Outcomes for Young Black Men’ project, which has evolved into a national initiative supporting Black children.
In a historic first, she became the first Black woman to serve as Deputy Mayor of Hackney and the first Black Deputy Leader of LGA Labour. She currently holds national roles as Chair of the Local Government Association (LGA) Group and serves as a cross-party trainer for LGA children’s leadership in England and Wales.
Cllr Margaret Greer: A Voice for Equality and Representation
Cllr Margaret Greer, whose father hails from Montserrat, has been a dedicated advocate for equality and community empowerment. Elected as a Labour Councillor for Enfield’s Upper Edmonton Ward in 2018, she was re-elected in 2022 and now serves as Deputy Mayor of Enfield since May 2024.
A National Officer for Race Equality at UNISON, Greer has fought against racism and injustice, earning her the distinction of being the first recipient of UNISON’s Nelson Mandela Award. She has completed various leadership programmes, including Operation Black Vote, the Labour Party’s Future Candidates Programme, and the Jo Cox Women in Leadership Programme. Her service extends to the Methodist Church Conference, where she represents the London District.
These extraordinary women are more than just history-makers; they are role models whose work continues to shape our communities today. Their leadership, advocacy, and achievements remind us that representation matters and that progress is built on the foundation of those who came before us.
Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate, but it is also a call to action. We must continue their work—supporting young women in leadership, advocating for equality, and ensuring that the stories of Montserratian excellence are told and recognised. By amplifying their voices and investing in future generations, we ensure that the next wave of trailblazers has the opportunities and platforms to succeed.
Let us take inspiration from their journeys and commit to keeping their legacy alive—not just this month, but every day.