Mayor of Lewisham awarded OBE

Mayor Dacres, who was elected Mayor in 2024, was previously a councillor for 10 years, representing wards in New Cross and Deptford. She became Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Housing Development and Planning in 2021. She has also held the Environment and Transport, and Safer Communities portfolios.

Brenda has lived in Lewisham for over 40 years. Her parents came to England from Jamaica in the 1960s as part of the Windrush generation, her dad working as a mechanic and black cab driver, and her mum as an NHS nurse.

Brenda received a grant from Lewisham Council and became the first in her family to go to university at London South Bank. She completed a degree in Physical Sciences with Computing before completing a Law degree. She was called to the Bar in 2006 by Middle Temple.

Mayor Dacres said: "It's an incredible privilege to be awarded an OBE and I'm truly honoured to be recognised in this way. Lewisham has been my home for over 40 years; it's where I've raised my family and built my life.

"To receive this award whilst serving as the first Black directly elected Mayor in London, for work that makes a difference in Lewisham, across London through London Councils, and nationally through the Local Government Association, means so much to me.

"I'm deeply grateful to my family, friends, my party, our dedicated Council officers and especially the people of Lewisham for their unwavering support. I hope this recognition will be a source of inspiration and encouragement - and that I can continue to be a positive role model for others."