Padmini Chamund is the first Hindu Asian woman to be a Councillor in Leicester’s famous Belgrave Road area. She was born in Kenya and came to the UK in 1975, since then have lived in Leicester.
She started her first work as a machinist in the factory but was always interested in community work and helping the vulnerable. Padmini have been a volunteer in many small organisations. Her first office job was as a receptionist and she slowly started to build up herself Currently, she works as a Payroll Administrator and Councillor of Belgrave Ward.
It gives her a pride that she can help people to those whose English is second language. Her first election which took place in December 2018 and following with the local election.
1) Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
Leicester has always been my home. Leicester is the diversity which involves people from a range of different social and ethnic. I have been living in Leicester for more than 40yrs. I feel very proud of Leicester because Leicester City has been the first city to celebrate many festivals.
2) What are your proudest achievements?
My pride is that I am first Hindu Gujarati woman to be the councillor of Belgrave ward, which makes many proud of me. This has been my biggest achievement. During the pandemic period how we three ward councillors helped the businesses, constituent and elderly vulnerable, supported the volunteers who delivered food, medication and any other help needed. This was a pride that we were able to be there for the constituent and businesses.
3) What inspires you?
My constituent, when working with them and making the importance in their life. Seen the support in the pandemic and communities standing up to help, taking the charge.
4) What has been biggest obstacle in your career?
In my person and professional life there has been many obstacles, which is always a learning process to move on and to reach the goal.
5) Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
In my person life my mother and my sister has always been supportive, caring and encouraging, but in the profession career Our Late Mansukh Lal Chohan, who supported and guided to the best way. Today whatever I am is because of Mr Chohan. It is sad that when I became councillor, he is not physically with us. He will be always remembered. His words to me were never afraid of anyone when you know you are wright.
6) What is the best aspect about your current role?
As I am able to speak four languages which makes me the voice for those whose voice has never been heard. The way I see something and someone with the constituent. During the pandemic we were not holding our surgery which is virtual. When the surgery starts will be looking forward to seeing our constituent in person and help them to the best.
7) And the worst?
The worst is that how some constituents are living in one house, how they are struggling. How many constituents are financially struggling, and many parents have to take their child to school which is not in the catchment area which cost them a lot.
8) What are your long-term goals?
My main aim is to help my constituent whose English is second language, who are not computer literacy. This is where I can communicate with them and get the help needed.
9) If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
Universal credit, this takes too long to sort someone’s benefit. Everything is online but how to help who are not computer literacy. Review the Pension age for women.
10) If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?
Rani of Jhansi. She was one of the leading figures of the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and became a symbol of resistance. Rani Lakshmibai was accustomed to riding on horseback accompanied by escorts between the palace and the temple. Jhansi was a brave lady who had her baby son and went to the battle ground with her baby son on her back. She was the lady of courage who should not be forgotten.
