With resilience, determination, and a strong commitment to community service, Councillor Mara Makunura has made history as the first female and Black African Mayor of Rushmoor, United Kingdom. Her journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, is a testament to overcoming barriers, breaking glass ceilings, and redefining the possibilities for women and people of colour in leadership positions.
Born and raised in a modest family in a rural village in Zimbabwe, Mara’s early life was shaped by the realities of poverty and limited opportunities. Despite these challenges, she had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a deep sense of social justice. With unwavering determination, she pursued her education and eventually earned a degree in social work.
Councillor Makunura’s career journey, from Chinhoyi in Zimbabwe to becoming the Mayor of Rushmoor in the UK, is truly remarkable. She attended Nemakonde Secondary School and Chikonohono Primary School in Zimbabwe. After marrying in 1996, she relocated to the UK in 1997 to join her spouse. In 2018, she became the first person of African heritage to be elected as a councillor in Rushmoor, Hampshire, marking the beginning of her political career in the UK.
Her entry into formal politics was driven by a desire to address systemic issues she observed in her community. She believed that real change could only be achieved from within the system, leading her to run for local council. Her campaign was unconventional—she ran on a platform of inclusivity, diversity, and community empowerment. As a Black African woman who had not grown up in the UK, she was an outsider in many ways. However, her authenticity, coupled with a deep understanding of the issues facing her community, resonated with voters.
Becoming Mayor of Rushmoor
Makunura’s election as Mayor of Rushmoor was a landmark event and a moment of pride not just for her, but for the entire community she represents. As the first female and Black African Mayor of Rushmoor, her victory was a celebration of diversity and inclusion. Upon accepting the office at the annual council meeting, she pledged to champion diversity and promote equal opportunities for all. “With our local census statistics evidencing that 52% of our Rushmoor population is female, it is crucial that our leadership reflects the diverse demographics of our community, inspiring our youth, especially young girls, to strive for greatness without limitations. Together, we will shatter the glass ceiling and pave the way for a more inclusive and representative leadership that truly represents the beautiful tapestry of our community,” she stated.
Councillor Mara Makunura’s journey from Zimbabwe to becoming the first Black female Mayor of Rushmoor is a story of bravery, tenacity, and the power of diversity. Her life and work are examples of what is possible when one is deeply committed to equality, justice, and volunteerism. Makunura’s leadership has not only transformed Rushmoor but also inspired many others to hope for a future where justice and inclusivity prevail. As she continues to break new ground, Mara Makunura stands as a beacon of hope and a formidable model of 21st-century leadership.
