LEWISHAM has taken on 40 people from ethnic minorities to promote the virtues of civic life.

It is part of the council’s Civic Leadership Programme, which aims to nurture the borough’s future leaders.

Through the scheme, they will learn about the roles of school governors, councillors, board members, trustees and other public appointments and given an insight into the systems and procedures of public bodies.

Cabinet member with responsibility for equalities Councillor Damien Egan told them: “Town halls are supposed to reflect the experience and expertise of the communities they represent; at the moment, they don’t.

“This is one part of that process.”

Director of Operation Black Vote Simon Woolley said: “I have no doubt that in the months and years to come that this group of individuals will not only serve on a local level, but on a national platform too.

“We are nurturing Lewisham’s Barack and Michelle Obamas.”