*Picture: Me, age 28, Formentera, Spain, April 2004.
Politics is part of my life because I care about fairness, representation and the world we leave behind. I have worked inside campaigns and political organisations for years. I have seen how decisions are made, how power is used and how often the system fails the people it is meant to serve. I have also seen how much difference it makes when someone with integrity steps forward.
My feminism is central to my politics. I believe women should be in leadership far more than they are now. I believe the world is better when women lead. I think men have held power for too long and that the imbalance has caused real harm. I support women into leadership, and I challenge the idea that power belongs to men by default. This is not theoretical for me. It is work I have done and continue to do.
Environmental politics matters to me as well. I care about the climate, the natural world and the future we are building. I want a society that protects the environment rather than exploiting it. I am currently a Green member because their values align most closely with mine, but I am not fixed to any party. I care about principles, not colours on a rosette.
I am progressive, but I am also realistic. I know how corrupt and cynical politics can be. I know how money shapes outcomes long before voters are involved. I know how often good people burn out while those with ego rise. I stay involved because I still believe in the possibility of change and because I cannot look away from injustice.
My politics shapes how I show up in relationships. I value honesty, fairness and people who stand for something. I am drawn to those who care about the world beyond themselves. I do not debate the humanity of others. I do not entertain bigotry dressed up as opinion. I want to connect with people who understand that power is real and that how we use it matters.
If you want to know more about the work I have done or the issues I care about, I love talking about it. My values are part of me, and I do not apologise for them.