Rabina Khan is a politician, writer, author, broadcaster and campaigner with a particular interest in Women’s rights, Climate change inclusion, Human Rights and Social Justice. She writes regular articles for the Independent, Guardian and Huff Post and appears frequently on Current Affairs Programmes. Rabina’s book “My Hair Is Pink Under This Veil” was published in 2021.
1) Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
Tower Hamlets, London as I have lived and worked here for most of my life. It is a vibrant and diverse multi-cultural borough with a great sense of community cohesion. Brick Lane, for example, has been described as a paradise for bargain hunters, foodies and fashionistas. I love it.
2) What are your proudest achievements?
Every aspect of my work that has made a difference to people’s lives, including breaking down stereotypes and promoting inclusion, understanding and tolerance. Being instrumental in the creation of 4500+ new homes in Tower Hamlets and key regeneration projects that won a Sunday Times Award and a Planning Award.
3) What inspires you?
Anyone who has battled against the odds to become successful and help others as a result of their own experiences. Some of the most inspirational people I know have known defeat, suffered loss and endured hardship.
4) What has been biggest obstacle in your career?
Throughout my life, I have continued to experience discrimination and stereotyping, more so because I choose to wear the hijab and am visibly Muslim, but I have learned that much of this is the result of uneducated misinformation.
5) Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
My parents – as the daughter of an immigrant family I have seen the struggles of my parents to settle in a new country and proudly call Britain their home. They taught me the values of honesty, respect and kindness.
6) What is the best aspect about your current role?
Being able to make a positive difference to people’s lives. There is no greater reward than to see people thrive and for young people to fulfil their potential because of help, advice and intervention that you have provided. I love empowering people to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.
7) And the worst?
The bickering and criticism from the opposition, which I feel is a waste of time when we should all be pulling together, regardless of our political affiliation, to achieve the best for our communities. We might disagree, but we can still be kind and respectful.
8) What are your long term goals?
To be elected as the first British Bangladeshi Female Mayor in the UK. To continue to serve my community and make a positive difference to people’s lives, locally, nationally, and internationally. I plan to write more books and campaign on issues dear to my heart.
9) If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
Not just giving lip service to issues of importance, but actually carrying out what I have promised to do. Promoting a fairer society where no one is left behind. I don’t just talk the change, I would make the change.
10) If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why.
Maya Angelou, because she defended the rights of women, young people and the maginalised. She had an unapologetic conscience and her influence was significant. A victim of childhood abuse, she turned her struggles into extraordinary talents. Her memoir, Why Caged Birds Sing, was one of the most widely read memoirs.
