Valerie Amos honoured with one of Britain’s oldest royal titles
In 2022, Valerie Amos made history again by receiving one of the United Kingdom’s highest honours. She was appointed a Lady Companion of the Order of the Garter, becoming the first Black person ever to be named to the exclusive group.
The Order of the Garter was founded in 1348 by King Edward III. It is the most senior order of knighthood in Britain, limited to only 24 living members at any time. Being chosen is a rare and respected honour—given directly by the monarch, without political input.
Royal recognition of decades of public service
Amos received the honour for her decades of leadership across politics, diplomacy, and education. Her appointment was personally approved by Queen Elizabeth II before the Queen’s passing in September 2022.
Many saw the decision as long overdue. Lord Woolley, another Black peer, called it “a proud moment for the nation” and praised Amos for opening doors that others once thought were locked.
First Black woman to serve in a UK Cabinet
Before this royal honour, Valerie Amos had already broken many records. In 2003, she became the first Black woman Cabinet minister in the UK. She was appointed Secretary of State for International Development, handling Britain’s overseas aid and disaster relief.
She later served as Leader of the House of Lords and Lord President of the Council, proving her ability to lead at the highest levels of government.
Global impact through the United Nations
Amos also made an impact on the global stage. From 2010 to 2015, she worked as the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs. She was responsible for coordinating emergency responses in war zones and disaster areas.
Later, she served as British High Commissioner to Australia, strengthening ties between the two nations.
Trailblazer in UK higher education
In 2015, Amos became the first Black woman to lead a UK university when she took charge as Director of SOAS, University of London. Her appointment was a turning point for diversity in academia.
She wasn’t done yet. In 2020, she was chosen as Master of University College, Oxford, becoming both the first woman and first Black person to lead the college in its 700-year history.
A legacy of leadership and excellence
Valerie Amos’s 2022 Garter honour capped decades of work across public life. Her appointment sent a powerful message—showing that dedication and service at every level matter deeply.
She once said in a speech, “I never imagined someone like me would walk these halls, let alone lead in them.” Today, her story inspires others across generations, especially young Black women aiming for leadership roles.
