Roma Taylor, the esteemed founder and chair of Windrush Cymru Elders, has been duly recognised in the King’s New Year Honours List, receiving the prestigious British Empire Medal (BEM). This esteemed accolade pays tribute to Taylor’s exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of the Windrush generation and their descendants and her invaluable contributions to community cohesion.

Roma Taylor’s journey as a staunch advocate for the Windrush community began with establishing Windrush Cymru Elders, a pivotal organisation dedicated to supporting, guiding, and empowering the Windrush community in Wales. Her visionary leadership has been pivotal in addressing the challenges faced by this community and ensuring their voices are heard and respected.

Expressing profound gratitude for the recognition, Roma Taylor emphasised the collective effort of the entire community in effecting positive change and preserving their rich heritage. She remarked, ‘I was overjoyed when I got notified that my name was in the Gazette for the King’s New Year’s Honours List. This Award acknowledges the collective efforts of Race Council Cymru, Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and other bodies working tirelessly to honour the Windrush Generation’s legacy and ensure our well-being.

The BEM award bestowed upon Taylor is a testament to her remarkable achievements and a call to action for continued support, recognition, and equality for the Windrush generation and their descendants.

As Roma Taylor rightfully takes her place in the King’s New Year Honours List, it serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing need for acknowledgment, support, and redress for the injustices faced by the Windrush generation. Her dedication and resilience amplify the importance of recognizing and honouring the contributions of underrepresented communities in shaping the tapestry of our society.