In the recent UK general election, Sojan Joseph, a mental health nurse from the National Health Service (NHS) who migrated from Kerala 22 years ago, emerged victorious in the Conservative stronghold of Ashford in Kent, southeastern England. Joseph, 49, who ran as a Labour candidate, defeated Tory stalwart and former minister Damian Green, marking a significant victory for the Labour Party and dealing a blow to the anti-immigration rhetoric of right-wing candidates.
Joseph's campaign resonated with voters through his commitment to enhancing mental health services in his constituency. His victory in Ashford, where the far-right Reform UK came in third after the Tories, signifies a shift in voter sentiment. In his acceptance speech, Joseph expressed his gratitude, saying, "I am humbled by the trust you all placed in me and fully aware of the responsibilities that come with it. I will work hard for everyone in Ashford, Hawkinge and villages."
Joseph's background as a local councillor, a BAME (black, Asian, and minority ethnic) Officer, and his extensive career as a mental health nurse provided him with the empathy and understanding needed for his new role in Parliament. Having lived in Ashford with his wife and three children for over 15 years, Joseph has strong ties to the local community. He has participated in numerous fundraising activities, including running marathons for various charities and a dragon boat race for the local hospital charity.
"I take great pride in calling Ashford, and Willesborough, my home. I have taken part in several fundraising activities over the years, including running marathons for various charities and a dragon boat race for the local hospital charity," Joseph said. "I firmly believe in an inclusive society that works towards achieving the full potential for every individual in the community."
Joseph's educational background includes attending school in Kottayam and completing his nursing studies at BR Ambedkar Medical College in Bengaluru. In the UK, he earned a Master’s degree in healthcare leadership, with a focus on diversity and inclusion in public healthcare. His passion for improving access to mental and physical healthcare services was evident throughout his campaign.
Joseph will join a new cohort of first-time Labour MPs of Indian heritage in the House of Commons, reflecting the nationwide swing towards the Labour Party after Keir Starmer led the party to a landslide victory and a new government.
