Police Sergeant Leila Wilkins
I joined Kent Police as a member of police staff in 2004 when I worked in crime reduction.
As a child I had always wanted to be a police officer. However, after completing my degree I felt I had been in a bubble and I was neither confident nor ready to join as an officer.
It was only when I attended a Race Equality Network (REN) conference in 2007, and I heard one of the speakers talk of how they’d only ever wanted to be an officer that my passion was reignited - there was no stopping me. I became a police officer in 2008.
My career, so far in Kent, has been as a uniformed officer. I have been lucky enough to work in North Kent, West Kent and I am now based as sergeant in Maidstone within the local policing team.
Over my career I have faced numerous incidents of racism, and instances of ignorance around race. Growing up as someone of colour, with a great and strong role model in my mother, I have learnt that this is not something to shy away from and I have learnt to have the confidence to tackle it head on.
Black History Month is something I feel is important, both to celebrate and recognise.
An individual’s make up should be celebrated and people should be encouraged to be proud of who they are.
I am of mixed heritage, part Mauritian and part English, brought up within a very white community by a Mauritian mother, influenced by her heritage, influences and her background.
I have two young children. I actively encourage them to learn about their culture and history, and to be proud of that and who it makes them.
Kent Police has changed in the time I have worked here, people appear more comfortable to talk about race, to talk about barriers and there are more visible role models to inspire people.
The REN is perfectly placed to offer support and to reach out to those who lack confidence. They have helped me and continue to do so. I am now in a position to be able to help others too and I feel confident and proud to do so.
I am proud to be a Kent police officer and to be one representing my heritage.