Angela John: Fostering Community Spirit as Madam Mayor of Southam

In the rich fabric of Southam's community, there's a notable figure whose presence shines brightly — Madam Mayor Angela John. Angela stands as a pillar of the town, her influence felt through her enthusiastic participation in public events, her unwavering commitment to philanthropic causes, and her heartfelt dedication as a resident deeply invested in the betterment of Southam.

Originally from Leamington Spa, Angela has called this town home for over 2 decades. She lives here with her husband, a retired primary school headteacher. Her journey unfolds with a career spanning 30 years in IT user/customer support for Warwickshire County Council. Angela's decision to take early retirement wasn't an endpoint but a gateway to channel her energy and expertise into community service.

Drawing from her experience in local government in a customer facing role Angela recognised an opportunity to leverage her skills and passion for people. Elected onto Southam Town Council, she aimed to champion her town and engage with businesses and residents.

In a defining moment, Angela ascended to the prestigious role of Madam Mayor in 2022, marking her commitment to elevate the council's profile and foster active engagement within the community. The role of a mayor surpasses mere ceremonial duties; it's a multifaceted position demanding versatile skills and a deep commitment to community service. Beyond the official title, Angela’s responsibilities have been diverse and impactful across the community.

Working in the community with Southam residents forms a cornerstone of her tenure, where she tirelessly champions causes such as Galanos House, the Royal British Legion care home and its community hub, which provides a raft of valuable services and events for the community. Angela's selection of Galanos House as her mayoral charity resonates deeply with its crucial role within Southam.

Angela's tireless work ethic and commitment to serving the community by engaging with and helping residents reflect her genuine love for Southam.

Beyond ceremonial duties, Angela's tenure as Mayor has been marked by relentless efforts to forge connections both within Southam and across the county. She has utilised her position to advocate for residents, such as those in Tithe Lodge, collaborating with fellow councillors and our MP, Rt Hon Sir Jeremy Wright KC, to address pressing issues and champion individual causes.

As she continues her second term in office, Angela's determination and passion serve as an inspiration to all, embodying the true essence of leadership and community spirit. Her journey as Mayor exemplifies the impact an individual can make when driven by a genuine desire to enhance the lives of those around them.

During her tenure as Mayor, Angela made a significant mark in the town's history during a sombre period following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Amidst the nation's collective mourning, Angela stood at the forefront as Mayor, fulfilling a solemn duty by reading the Official Proclamation to the town. She felt humbled to play her part as she announced the Queen's passing and the accession of our new monarch, echoing the timeless tradition with the resounding call of "God Save The King!" This historic moment, deeply entrenched in centuries-old tradition, highlighted Angela's pivotal role and the enduring significance of the mayoral position in moments of national transition.

On a lighter note, there are traditions unique to the role of Southam Mayor that add a touch of local charm. One such tradition is being the first to ride the dodgems at Southam Mop every year. This jovial tradition speaks volumes about the Mayor's integration into the town's fabric, embracing moments of joy and celebration while symbolising unity with the community.

The role of Mayor encompasses a rich tapestry of responsibilities, from solemn civic duties to fostering community spirit through fun-filled traditions. Angela is dedicated to each aspect of her role for the betterment of Southam in every possible sphere and is not afraid to use modern social media to raise Southam’s profile. Angela's dynamic leadership and active role in the community set a remarkable standard for civic engagement, making her an invaluable asset to our town.