Dr. Debbie Weekes-Bernard: A Trailblazer in Social Justice and Policy Development

A Career Dedicated to Equality and Social Justice

Dr. Debbie Weekes-Bernard, the Deputy Mayor of London for Communities and Social Justice, holds the distinction of being the highest-ranking national of St. Kitts and Nevis in government outside the Federation. With deep roots in Camps Village, Nevis, where both of her parents—Patrick Weekes and Sylvia Jeffers—were born and raised, Dr. Weekes-Bernard has built an illustrious career in social justice, policy development, and advocacy.

Academic and Professional Background

Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s academic credentials are equally impressive. She holds a PhD in Social Psychology and Sociology from Nottingham Trent University, a BA (Hons) in Sociology from the University of Essex, and a Graduate Diploma in Law from St. George’s, University of London. Her career has spanned significant roles, including:

Deputy Mayor of London for Social Integration (2018–Present) – Overseeing policies on poverty reduction, social cohesion, and community engagement.
Policy and Research Manager at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (2016–2018) – Leading research on ethnicity, poverty, and labor markets.
Head of Research at the Runnymede Trust (2013–2016) – Managing research on educational attainment gaps, race and criminal justice, and youth transitions.

A Trailblazer with Nevisian Roots

Beyond her impressive career in the UK, Dr. Weekes-Bernard remains connected to her Nevisian heritage. As a cousin of former SKN MP Patrice Nisbett, her lineage reflects a strong tradition of public service and leadership.

What is Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s Current Role?

Dr. Weekes-Bernard is the Deputy Mayor of London for Communities and Social Justice, a position she has held since 2018. In this role, she leads efforts to address social justice issues, ensuring that Londoners, particularly marginalized groups, have a strong voice in governance.

What are Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s Key Responsibilities?

Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s key responsibilities include:

Chairing the Mayor’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Group
Leading the London Strategic Migration Panel
Co-chairing MOPAC’s Disproportionality Board
Sitting on the London Policing Board
Leading various expert roundtables, including those on race equality, interfaith dialogue, and disability rights

What is Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s Salary?

Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s annual salary is £147,770.

Conclusion

Dr. Debbie Weekes-Bernard’s story stands as an inspiration for nationals of the Federation, showcasing the power of education, advocacy, and commitment to social justice on the global stage.

FAQs

What is Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s current role?
Dr. Weekes-Bernard is the Deputy Mayor of London for Communities and Social Justice.
What are Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s key responsibilities?
Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s key responsibilities include chairing the Mayor’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Group, leading the London Strategic Migration Panel, co-chairing MOPAC’s Disproportionality Board, and more.
What is Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s salary?
Dr. Weekes-Bernard’s annual salary is £147,770.