Brixton Hill Councillor - Florence Dauta Nosegbe

Florence Dauta Nosegbe

When and why did you first become interested in politics?
I remember going with my mother and my two sisters to the polling station and watching my mother vote. I remember her talking about how important it is to vote and I couldn’t wait to vote. I enjoyed studying Politics and Law for my A-Levels and at University and learning more about how politics is connected with almost everything we do in life and how powerful the political process really is.

What inspired you to become a councillor?
I have witnessed first hand the way the most disadvantaged people in our community are often treated so badly when all they really want is the opportunity to be able to get out of poverty and better themselves. I was also very shocked and surprised at the composition of the old council and I strongly believe that the residents in a borough like Lambeth need a council which is representative of the people living here.

Has it been worth it?
I am learning new things about the council and the borough nearly everyday and it is also nice meeting the residents and people. I am enjoying it all so far and I know that it will all be worth it because we have our manifesto pledges to deliver.

What’s your greatest fear and your greatest hope?
My greatest fear is not fulfilling everything I have set out to do in my life - I have a great fear of failure. My greatest hope is to achieve all I want from life before I am seated at the Right Hand of God.

What’s the first thing you would do if you ruled the world for a day?
End world poverty – ‘For the love of Money is the root of all evil’

What single thing would most improve your area?
Improvements in housing – over 80% of the casework enquiries which I have received since the election is to do with overcrowding and transfers and the cost of affordable housing in Lambeth.

What fictional character do you identify with, and why?
Probably Phileas Fogg because I enjoy travelling to different destinations or Carrie Bradshaw – A woman can never have too many shoes.

What’s your favourite film?
I have two - Beaches and The Sound of Music

What do you consider your greatest political triumph?
Getting selected and elected in Brixton Hill whilst also working in Islington to increase the number of Labour councillors there from 10 to 23.

What is the biggest problem with local government today?
I think Local Government has lost touch with its ‘local’ aspect and some people would argue that this is due to national government legislation. However, if a local council does not engage with its local residents I do not think it will be a very effective council.

How would you solve it?
Less red tape and with more control for local councils and Councillors, which I believe will enable the council to communicate better with its residents.

Who is your political hero, and why?
Ken Saro-Wiwa and Steve Biko for fighting for their beliefs.

When and where are you most happy?
I am most happy when I am at church – I can always clear my head free of all the worries and problems of the outside world

What’s your theme song, and why?
The ‘Neighbours’ theme tune – it’s the Red Flag for the 21st Century:
#Neighbours, everybody needs good Neighbours
With a little understanding, you can find the perfect blend
Neighbours, should be there for one another
That's when good Neighbours become good friends#

What one book would you take with you to a desert island?
The Bible.

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