Honouring Windrush: Sandra Samuels OBE on Legacy, Leadership & Black British History
Windrush Day 2025 was a powerful moment of remembrance and celebration in Wolverhampton. On 22nd June 2025, the city paid tribute to the Windrush Generation with a flag raising ceremony and the unveiling of a bronze bust in honour of Mel Chevannes, Wolverhampton’s first African-Caribbean councillor and a pioneering community leader.
At the heart of these historic celebrations was Sandra Samuels OBE, former Mayor of Wolverhampton and Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands—a proud daughter of the Windrush legacy and one of the city’s most respected Black leaders.
A Personal and Powerful Conversation
In this podcast episode, Sandra speaks with Gurpri Bains and Chris Allen about:
- Her personal journey as a Black woman in leadership
- The importance of Windrush to Wolverhampton and the UK
- Why representation and legacy matter
- The ongoing challenge to ensure Black History is valued as British History
Her words are honest, passionate, and deeply moving—reminding us that Windrush is not just the past, but the foundation of modern Britain.
Windrush: History, Struggle, Strength
Sandra continues to champion the message that:
Black History is British History – and must be recognised all year round.
She calls for continued education, visibility, and justice for the descendants of Windrush who helped rebuild this country and shaped its culture, community, and identity.
Why This Episode Matters
Sandra Samuels OBE is a powerful voice for:
✅ Equality
✅ Heritage
✅ Community leadership
✅ A more inclusive future
Her story is a testament to resilience, service, and pride—and a reminder that we must continue to honour our elders, uplift our history, and inspire the next generation.
🎧 Listen to the full podcast to hear Sandra’s remarkable journey and her vision for how we keep Windrush history alive in our schools, our institutions, and our hearts.
Sandra Samuels OBE DL - Windrush - Celebrating Wolverhampton - WCR FM
Black History is British History.
And it must never be forgotten.
