BHM - RAFFA Advocates: Rosalind Howells

Angelina Elliott
Oct 27
2 min read

As RAFFA approaches its landmark 20th anniversary, we are proud to mark this important milestone with a year-long celebration. This Black History Month signals the start of a planned series of monthly events and recognise-and-advocate efforts that will run through to our 20th-anniversary year, culminating in a public acknowledgment of our advocates, partners, and supporters who have stood with us over the decades.

The late Bishop Sherman Allen and Baroness Rosalind Howells, alongside Bishop Adrian Varlack

First in the series is the late Rosalind Howells, Baroness Howells of St Davids, OBE who passed away earlier this month, a true matriarch and trailblazer.

RAFFA International Development Agency was launched at the House of Lords on Thursday 26th November 2006. Hosted by Baroness Howells of St David and keynote address Bishop Adrian Varlack, Sr.

A proud daughter of Grenada, Baroness Howells was a monumental figure in the British Caribbean diaspora and in the House of Lords, where she served as a Labour life peer. Her journey from the Spice Isle to the heart of UK politics was a powerful testament to her intellect, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice and community.

Baroness Howells, was known for her lifelong commitment to racial equality, community cohesion, and international development, was a fitting figure to host such a launch, aligning with her broader legacy of advocacy and empowerment.

Throughout her remarkable life, she was a fierce advocate for social equality, education, and the rights of women and marginalised groups. She co-founded the Notting Hill Carnival and was a dedicated patron of numerous charities, always using her platform to uplift others. She was, in every sense, a "Sister of Grenada," carrying the strength, grace, and resilience of her homeland with her.