Councillor Dr Chukwudi Okeke, the first black councillor and chairman of Cherwell District Council, is being celebrated for Black History Month.

Councillor Okeke made local history when elected as the council's first black councillor in 2022 and the first black chairman in 2024.

He said: "It’s an honour of a lifetime to be elected as the first black councillor and chairman of Cherwell District Council, and it is my privilege to represent the district."

Councillor Okeke was inspired to join the government by a strong desire to work with communities to create a healthy society for everyone, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, or social background.

He said: "Local government shares huge responsibilities in building a cohesive society, and I wanted to be involved in helping to build a community where everyone is valued."

His upbringing in Amaokpala, Nigeria, played a significant role in shaping his dedication to helping others.

Councillor Okeke recalled: "I must say that my upbringing exposed me to the value of empathy and helped to foster my ambition for a leadership role."

His journey into local government has been an enjoyable and welcoming experience.

He said: "Supportive councillor colleagues and exceptional council officers made it easier for me to fit in well."

Providing a voice to the black community is essential to Councillor Okeke.

He said: "Often in a field of competing views, the voices of minorities are buried at best, and at worst their contributions tend to be ignored or sidelined.

"Representation in local government is crucial in building a more equal society.

"Our council serves a diverse community, and having a representation that reflects our community will lead to more informed decision-making and ultimately a healthier society."

Since being elected to the council in 2022, Councillor Okeke has paved the way for further history with the election of Councillor Becky Clarke MBE as the council’s first-ever black female councillor.

Councillor Okeke is proud of this achievement.

He said: "Never allow your background to be a barrier to your success, and never believe that certain opportunities are only for certain people.

"Participation is the key to achieving representation in leadership."

To Councillor Okeke, Black History Month means celebrating and promoting the best black values, talent, and achievements in a supportive and accepting multicultural society.

He also takes the opportunity to reflect on how he has made his mark on the district’s history.

He said: "I am so thankful to those who have paved the way for me to be where I am today."