Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø

From Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø to Mayor: A journey of service, diversity and inspiration

25 June 2026

A portrait of a Mayor in his robes of office against a wooden background

Article Written By

Krishna Suresh - BA Bachelor of Arts in Combined Studies, 1997 Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø; Honorary Doctor of Philosophy; Mayor of the London Borough of Harrow.

“Education and learning, knowledge and experience are the most important ingredients in life.”

Why I chose Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø

When I first arrived in London from my small village in Sri Lanka, I was eager to expand my horizons and build a future rooted in community and learning. Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø stood out to me because of its diverse, inclusive environment and reputation for welcoming international students. The university’s location in Hendon, close to my home in Harrow, made it incredibly accessible, especially with the 183 bus stopping just outside my door in North Harrow.

What truly drew me in was the vibrant multicultural community. Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø opened a door to understanding different cultures and forging friendships that would last a lifetime. I was hungry for knowledge, especially in maths, IT, and accounting and Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø’s reputation for excellent courses and supportive staff made it the perfect place for my growth.

My first impressions and campus life

My early days at Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø were filled with excitement and curiosity. I remember exploring the campus, meeting students from all over the world, and immersing myself in the diverse student life. I quickly got involved in student groups and cultural events, sharing experiences and making friends from various backgrounds.

One of my favourite spots was the library, where I spent many hours studying and planning my future. Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø wasn’t just about academics; it was about building a community. I joined clubs related to my interests, and participating in University events helped me develop confidence and leadership skills. Those moments laid the foundation for my journey into public service and community leadership.

My best memories

Some of my proudest moments come from helping others during my time at Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø. I was often the go-to person for friends needing advice with visas or bank accounts. Helping people became a passion, and those small acts of kindness grew into something bigger.

One memorable milestone was helping my friend Gareth Thomas in his 1997 general election campaign. Delivering leaflets and teaching recruits about safety, including avoiding overzealous dogs, was a fun and meaningful experience. Seeing Gareth elected as MP for Harrow West made me realise how much I could contribute to my community.

Another highlight was forming lifelong friendships through sharing cultures, stories, and dreams. Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø created an environment where diversity thrived—an experience I cherish deeply.

Life after graduation

Graduating from Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø was a turning point. I transitioned from student to community leader, inspired by the university’s inclusive ethos. I started my career managing accounts at Samsung, where I built strong relationships with clients including Asda and Boots. My journey wasn’t just about personal success; it was about giving back.

I became active in local politics, initially volunteering, then serving on community panels, school boards, and as a trustee. My dedication to service led me to be elected as a councillor and eventually the Mayor of Harrow. Since then I have held various leadership roles, including portfolio holder for Community Safety, Enforcement, Community Cohesion, Public Health, and Equalities. Currently, I serve as the shadow portfolio holder for Community, Culture, and Customer Services for the London Borough of Harrow.

My commitment to public service is grounded in the values I learned at Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø - diversity, inclusion, and community support, which continue to inspire my work and dedication to creating inclusive and thriving communities.

Advice for prospective students

To those considering Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø, my biggest tip is to embrace every opportunity. The University’s diverse environment is a melting pot of experiences - you’ll meet people who will challenge and inspire you. Get involved in clubs, support networks, and community projects.

Use the University’s resources, including career services, mentorship programmes, and student associations, to shape your path. Remember, your time at Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø isn’t just about grades; it’s about building relationships, gaining confidence, and discovering your purpose.

And my final piece of advice: never underestimate the power of kindness and service. Small acts can grow into meaningful change, just like they did for me. Be brave, sincere, and positive, your journey can be as impactful as mine.

Shaping my journey

My time at Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø was more than just academic; it was about understanding the importance of community and the strength of diversity. From my first day on campus to my role as Mayor, the values I cultivated including honesty, kindness and resilience guided me. Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø didn’t just prepare me for a career; it prepared me to serve, lead, and inspire others.

My story is a testament to the transformative power of education and community. I hope it encourages current and future students to believe in themselves and the difference they can make. Remember, every day is a new opportunity to leave a positive mark, just as Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø helped me do.

Find out more about undergraduate study at Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø.