In March of this year, Councillor Chewe Munkonge made history by becoming the first Black person to hold the office of The Lord Mayor of Oxford. “Since becoming Lord Mayor, I have had the privilege of attending a wide range of civic, community, cultural, educational and charitable events across Oxford. Every engagement has been unique and inspiring, and each has reinforced just how fortunate I am to serve such a vibrant and compassionate city. I am equally looking forward to the many events still to come during my mayoral year, particularly taking part in the Oxford Half Marathon to raise funds for Sobell House Hospice, one of my chosen charities, and hosting Oxford's Remembrance Sunday commemorations, an occasion of profound significance as we come together to honour those who gave their lives in service to our country.”
We wanted to know, what makes The Lord Mayor
Happy?
Seeing people fulfil their potential. Nothing gives me greater joy than seeing someone succeed because someone believed in them. Whether it's a young person graduating, a small business opening its doors, a volunteer being recognised, or a deserving child receiving a laptop that opens up new opportunities, those moments remind me why I chose public service. Happiness, for me, is knowing that I've played even a small part in helping someone else's journey.
Sad?
Wasted potential. Growing up in Zambia and later building my life in Oxford taught me that talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not. It saddens me when people's circumstances prevent them from reaching their full potential. Every child deserves the chance to dream, and every person deserves the opportunity to succeed.
Angry?
Injustice. I rarely become angry about things that affect me personally, but I do become deeply frustrated when vulnerable people are treated unfairly or when people are denied opportunities because of who they are or where they come from. I believe anger is most powerful when it becomes determination to make things better.
Reflective?
My journey. Serving as Lord Mayor has made me reflect on just how extraordinary life's journey can be. I often think about the young boy who began school in Milenge, Zambia, never imagining that one day he would become Lord Mayor of Oxford. That journey has taught me to remain humble, to be grateful for every opportunity, and never to forget where I came from. I believe true success is measured not by the positions we hold, but by the lives we touch along the way.
Confident?
Preparation and purpose. People often mistake confidence for speaking loudly or having all the answers. For me, confidence comes from being well prepared, working hard, and remembering why I'm there. Whether I'm speaking at an international summit or listening to a resident with a local concern, my role is the same, to serve. When your purpose is clear, confidence follows naturally.
Politically motivated?
Making a difference. Politics was never about power for me; it has always been about people. I entered public service because I wanted to make a positive difference in the lives of others and to give something back to the city that has given so much to me and my family. Every decision I make is guided by one simple question: Will this improve someone's life? If the answer is yes, then it's worth pursuing.
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