Newark's Youngest District Female Councillor, Emma Oldham, Takes Home ‘'Women of the Future Award 2023
Emma Oldham, the youngest female councillor in Newark and Sherwood District Council (NSDC), has been honoured with the esteemed 'Women of the Future' Award in the Community Spirit category.
This recognition acknowledges Emma's exceptional contributions as a public servant, environmental activist, and advocate for positive social action, solidifying her position as a prominent figure in the new generation of community-spirited young women.
The Community Spirit category seeks to celebrate the diverse and impactful contributions of women in public service, charity, volunteer work, business and social action.
The judges - Tom Athron - CEO of Fortnum & Mason, the UK’s iconic, globally-renowned home of extraordinary food and drink and Jenny Baskerville, Director of Inclusion, Diversity and Equity of KPMG UK were impressed by Emma's multi-faceted impact on her community, embodying the spirit of the award.
"Emma's impact is multi-layered. She's a working mum, the youngest female councillor in NSDC, and is paving a way in politics. An environmental activist, she's inspiring future generations and overcoming adversity to drive change in the local community," remarked the judges.
Emma's dedication to nature conservation and community spirit, spanning over the past 12 years, encompasses both professional and voluntary pursuits. From hosting talks on coping with eco-anxiety to actively participating in community initiatives like Newark Community Soup, Protecting Newark’s Green Spaces, Newark Polish Village, appearing on national TV, and presenting at major festivals, Emma's commitment is evident.
Her recent milestone includes the publication of her debut children’s book, The Whale Who Disappeared, aimed at inspiring the next generation to protect nature.
As an independent District Councillor, Emma actively challenges existing policies to safeguard waterways, prioritise environmental preservation, reduce air quality pollution, rejuvenate green spaces and boost biodiversity.
Rowan Cozens, spokesperson for Independents for Newark and District (IfND) says, "IfND is very proud of our youngest District Councillor Emma Oldham. She is a great example of what a multi-tasking mum can achieve by focusing on what matters and creating the best possible chances for young people’s future. She does this with passion and inspirational commitment. This is a well-deserved award - we are proud of our rising star!"
Beyond her local endeavours, Emma's commitment extends globally in her role at Connected Conservation Foundation, supporting field partners and communities in Africa with resources and conservation technology to help combat poaching, coexist with wildlife and address the effects of climate change.
Looking ahead, Emma is committed to forging transparent bonds between residents and the council, advocating for meaningful environmental change and championing women in politics. Her vision includes creating a more inclusive environment for working women and parents in local politics and supporting the integration of Newark's growing Polish community.
Emma's recognition in the 'Women of the Future’ Awards is a testament to her outstanding contributions to the community and the environment. Her diverse efforts, from local activism to international support, showcase her as a true community spirit and a rising star in the fields of politics, environmentalism and social impact.
“I’m over the moon to receive this prestigious award,” says Emma Oldham. “The evening was incredibly inspiring to be surrounded by so many compassionate, selfless and motivating women shaping a brighter future and society for my daughters to grow up. I can’t thank them enough.”
