Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Bev Willis came to England in 1965 and has spent much of her life caring for, supporting and advocating for others.

After training as a nurse, Bev worked within the NHS and across a range of health and community services. Her commitment to community life has also extended far beyond her professional work. She was among the early recipients of the Scarman Trust Community Champion Award and was a founder member of the Haringey Unsung Women’s Awards, helping to recognise and celebrate the contributions of women within her community.

Bev is also a published author and poet. Her book I Survived Etc, Etc, Etc explores the realities of domestic abuse and the bullying of women, giving voice to experiences that are too often kept behind closed doors. A lifelong love of poetry also inspired her collection Poems for Joy.

Family, which she refers to as the many colours of Benetton, faith and community have remained strong threads throughout Bev’s life. She continues to enjoy writing and a wide range of creative and community activities, and lives in North London, where she worships at her local Methodist church.