Heidi Alexander

Councillor in Lewisham

Having grown up in a very non-political family, my decision to get involved in local politics came as quite a shock to friends and relatives. I always had quite strong values but was never hugely interested in party politics.

When I first moved to London, I ended up working for an MP (more by luck than design) and I started to see how politicians could change people's lives. I realised that I wanted to make a difference personally and when I found myself passing comment on local issues, I thought I should put my money where my mouth was. I also felt - and still feel - that there are lots of very good talkers in politics and not as many good listeners. I wanted to change that in a small way.

The first year was difficult. I won a by-election and I really had to hit the ground running - there was a controversial affordable housing development locally and it was hard to stand up for my beliefs in the face of public opposition. I learnt a lot very quickly and gained a huge amount of confidence.

In the last two years, I've been full time at the Town Hall as the Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Regeneration. I do work long hours and my partner is a bit of a saint! Looking back, I don't know where the time has gone - no two days are ever the same, you get to meet loads of great people and you really can make a difference.