Huma Ahmed, from Bingley, West Yorkshire, is a science teacher of Pakistani heritage. She has been a magistrate for 21 years and was inspired to contribute and make a difference to the local community by her father, one of the UK’s first Asian police officers.
In an exclusive interview with Asian Voice, Huma Ahmed spoke about her experience as a magistrate, why more women must join the justice system and what it means to be a woman of Asian origin in a leadership role.
Here are a few excerpts from the interview:
In your experience as a magistrate over 21 years, how far do you think the law has come in Britain when it comes to delivering justice?
I do believe the law and delivery of justice have made substantial progress over the last 21 years. This is mainly due to the advancement of technology and an increased awareness and transparency of the Law. Laws have been adapted and reformed to meet the needs of our ever-evolving society. The magistracy has also diversified to better represent the community it serves but there is still work to be done.
What are the challenges of being a woman in power as a magistrate?
I would never describe being a magistrate as having personal power, it can be defined as a privilege and a responsibility of exercising the power of the law, we are guided by strict sentencing guidelines and parameters and legal advice to inform our decision making. Decisions are made collectively by three magistrates and each magistrate has an equal voice, it’s about working collaboratively and as part of a team. I personally feel a great sense of responsibility when looking at the evidence presented and then making a decision that will impact not only the life of the individual but also their family and working situation. Being a female magistrate allows me to bring my own experiences and expertise to the magistracy and every magistrate is treated with fairness and respect no matter their gender, faith, ethnicity or social background. You just need the confidence and assertiveness to express your opinion and discuss the issues presented and then come to a collective decision.
Would you recommend more women to join the judicial services? If yes, why?
I would strongly recommend women of all ages and backgrounds join the magistracy and wider judicial services. Currently, 56% of all magistrates are women it is important that women from all backgrounds and experiences consider applying and are represented, if you want to serve your community and give something back and to make a difference to the society and community of which we are all a part, this could be for you. It can involve multitasking, managing a full-time career, family life and other commitments, in my personal experience I have found it very rewarding, informative and it has enhanced me as a person.
What does it mean for you to be a woman of Asian origin, delivering justice in the UK? How does your family look at your achievements?
I am extremely proud of my Asian heritage and background and it is a part of who I am. Born and brought up in the UK, I am British and am passionate about being an active member of the our rich, diverse and multicultural society and strive for the equality of opportunity for everyone. Approximately 13% of magistrates consider themselves as BAME. Being a magistrate is a voluntary role and people of all backgrounds are encouraged to consider applying. I feel strongly that magistracy needs to represent the society and communities it serves. My family are very proud of me and the contribution I make, my true inspiration was my late father Rashid Awan MBE, who himself a pioneer, becoming one of the first Asian police officers in the UK. He always encouraged me to step up and to try and make a positive difference and be an active member of society.
Please give a message to our readers and tell them why more people from ethnic minorities must diversify the bench.
I strongly encourage individuals from all ethnic backgrounds to find out more about the role of a magistrate, no formal qualifications are required.
Anyone can apply as long as you: • are between 18-70 years old • are aware of social issues • are mature, understand people and have a sense of fairness • are reliable and committed to serving the community • have not been convicted of any serious criminal offence
The magistracy strives to be inclusive and represent the community it serves, we have made progress and are on an upward trajectory, there is still work to be done. You can make that difference.
