This year has been challenging for everyone in Brent. And for many, there has been much pain and suffering.

Covid-19 literally transformed our borough overnight, bringing severe hardship and disruption to all our lives.

It reminds me of another very difficult time. In May, we commentated VE Day – 75 years since the end of World War 2.

Winston Churchill said: "Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.”

We say thank you to our heroic "army" of NHS workers as well as all those on the frontline from delivery drivers to supermarket workers bravely working to protect our borough.

It was also incredible to see even in the darkest times, Brent’s diverse community coming together and supporting each other. And to hear the heart-warming stories of local volunteers helping residents so everyone was able to put food on the table and make sure our children didn’t go hungry.

Our families have had to make incredible sacrifices, even at Christmas. But by being responsible we can all help protect each other and prevent more residents from the unimaginable grief felt by those who have lost loved ones to Covid-19.

With all the pain and suffering, we may feel we are surrounded by too much anger and division in the world. But as always, there is more that brings us together than divides us.

We saw Brent unity and determination after the tragic killing of George Floyd. We continued to unite as a community and powerfully show Black Lives Matter.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Families and friends march in Roundwood Park as part of Black Lives Matter. Picture: Brent Black Lives MatterFamilies and friends march in Roundwood Park as part of Black Lives Matter. Picture: Brent Black Lives Matter (Image: Archant)

I also remember our great community before Covid-19. International Women’s Day – celebrating its 25th anniversary by organising the Wembley Cup with Connect Stars and Wembley Stadium.

We supported hundreds of Brent young women and girls. Everyone playing and celebrating together the enormous contribution made by women in our community and to continue to help overcome barriers in sport, health and jobs and employment.

There is hope. We have the power of science. We are tired and exhausted but we are almost there. Together we will defeat Covid-19.

The days of being with our families and doing the things we love and enjoy will return.

And when they do, we will be stronger, more united and even more determined for a better future for our community.

For now, please stay strong and I wish you all a safe and peaceful Happy New Year.

  • Zaffar Van Kalwala is a former councillor for Stonebridge