Inspirational Woman: Julie Gunnell | Deputy Lord Mayor of York and a local Councillor

JulieGunnellTell us a bit about yourself, background and what you do currently

My name is Julie and I live in the beautiful city of York. I am a happily married mum of two, whose career is within the voluntary and community sector. I believe in fairness and equality and that everyone should have many opportunities to grow and flourish. Women are brilliant at providing inspiration and encouragement to one another. For me personally, I want to play my part by helping to influence and be at the core of local decision making.

Why did you become involved in Politics?

My interest in politics began as a child and growing up in a very political family! Having worked within the voluntary and community sector I began to see how people from all different backgrounds face many challenges on a day to day basis. I am now a member of the Labour Party, Co-operative party and a member of Progress. I decided to stand for election as a local Councillor in 2007 and although I was very nervous about having the ability, I thoroughly enjoyed the campaign and being part of a local democracy.

What appealed to you most about being involved in politics?

Politics affects each and every one of us no matter what our profession, backgrounds and ability. I wanted to make a difference. I particularly wanted to make a difference to the lives of young people and women. Being involved in local politics has provided me opportunities such as to work directly with looked after children and young people plus support women including women’s networks in various ways.

I believe in fairness and equality and that everyone should have many opportunities to grow and flourish. Women are brilliant at providing inspiration and encouragement to one another.

What has been your biggest challenge?

Time is a challenge and ensuring that I do not take on more than I can successfully manage. Plus politics is far too often a ‘mans’ world and it can be difficult to climb the ranks of political leadership as a woman. Statistically proven, women are still not making the progress needed to ensure balanced political representation at all levels.

What’s been your greatest achievement personally?

Being elected and then becoming the Cabinet Member for Corporate Services for the City of York Council in 2011-13. I led on the authorities finances at a time of the biggest shake up of public and welfare reform since the Second World War. In 2013-14 I was elected as the Rt Hon Lord Mayor of York. This was an amazing experience and during my year I campaigned vigorously to raise awareness of domestic violence and abuse. This led York to be accredited to the White Ribbon Status.

Plus I hope that my dream to create a virtual and physical women’s resource for York will be achieved.

If you weren’t doing what you do, what would you be doing?

Without question I would spend even more time promoting the human rights of looked after children and young people. I would also strengthen my work with women to contribute to raising aspirations, inclusion and success but also continue campaigning to deepen the public understanding of the devastating impact of domestic violence to women and families.

Who has been your biggest inspiration?

I have many inspirational people in my life! My family are hugely inspirational!

During my year as the RT Hon Lord Mayor, three women in particular have inspired me. Two of which have achieved excellent business success and one who promotes Human Rights across the world. All three women have proactively helped and continue to support me to develop a virtual and physical resource to strategically help and support the girls and women of York. Plus my latest inspirational person has to be the CEO and Founder of Wearethecity – Vanessa! I think what Vanessa has achieved for women is amazing.

What does the future hold for you?

For the next several months I will be campaigning for the elections in 2015. Along with the local campaign, I am the General Election Campaign Organiser for the re-election of the York Central MP.

Plus I hope that my dream to create a virtual and physical women’s resource for York will be achieved.

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