Birmingham Black History - Esme Lancaster MBE

Esme Lancaster MBE

Esme Lancaster was born in Willington, Jamaica. She could read the bible cover to cover by the time she was four-years-old. She was a very scholarly student and was awarded the Custos McGrath Shield for her participation in drama. But without parents she was unable to pay for a place at college to pursue her passion for education. As a result, she took on a job as a domestic servant at a sugar estate so that she could fund herself. An anonymous benefactor sent for her to be trained as a teacher. To this day she does not know who it was.

Having taught for many years in Jamaica. she decided to come to the UK in 1950 where she initially settled in Birmingham because she had made arrangements to teach at a local school. However, on the morning of her first day she received a letter telling her not to turn up. Other members of staff had refused to teach alongside a black person. She was determined to turn up anyway and challenged the contents of the letter. After Ten years Esme moved to Bristol to be closer to her sister and she stayed for ten years working with young people, but her roots in Birmingham were so strong that she returned to the city. She returned to take up the position as House Mother at Harambe, which was an organisation that worked with young women who were in need of help and support, some being first offenders, young mothers, or unemployed.

Still passionate about education, because of the struggles she encountered and her colleagues’ rejection of her, she decided to train in social services, initially with a focus on Child Care. She later went into probation and community work. Having been without parents herself, Esme came to know that her vocation in life was to help those in similar circumstances, those who were in need. In 1985, she helped to set up the Young Mother’s Relief Association and became passionately involved in improving the welfare of young black women, an extension of her overall passion for education. Her success in assisting many young mothers to return to education is legendary. She is Godmother to some 108 children and has brought up 42 children.

Esme is a committed Christian and her faith has been at the heart of everything she has done. She has continued in formal education throughout her life and is especially proud of her Diploma in Theology.

Her life’s work has been recognised through a number of awards including the Compassionate Action Award, The 2000 Heritage Award, Black History Foundation Citizens Award, The Award for Women of Purpose and Excellency and in 2000 she was awarded a MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Comments (8)

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... : Len Taylor

I have never met Ms. Esme, but I have always heard my Grandma spoke of her neice Esme. I have always wanted to meet her, but sine she departed Jamaica she never returned while I was there. My grandma also died at age 92 in 1999. Anyway, may their souls rest in peace.

What I would like is for her family members such as: Beverley Powell-Smith, Priscilla Bailey, and wendy to please contact me at my email address This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

My grandmother Loretta Galloway mother was Arrabella Bailey. Yes, they were all living in Pilot and Middleton, St. Thomas, Jamaica.

I have put together a family tree and is trying to tie these pieces. There are large pieces of this tree still missing. I sincerely need your help. I will not divulge more until I can privately speak with you all.

Please, please contact me. I am in Florida, and I have a SKYPE ACCOUNT we need to talk

December 20, 2010

... : Beverley Powell-Smith

To have share my birthplace with auntie Esmie is a blessing, I have heard people "say nothing good come out of St Thomas but Obea " Well this is one in the eye for all who believe that, May her name be forever on our lips.

November 23, 2009

... : Priscilla Bailey

I miss you Esme. You were are great role model for me and a great encouragement when I needed it. Rest in Peace.

June 30, 2009

... : wendy

god bless my great grand aunt i will make you proud rest in peace

February 10, 2009

... : Netty

A twentieth century mary secole, truly an inspiration to all, I for one would love to have your passion and flair for live and will endeavour to follow suit.well done Esme.

September 19, 2008

... : Yana Johnson

A true role model adding values and inspiration to those who knew her and who have read about her.

December 29, 2007

... : Ayo Faleti

A true hero!

June 19, 2007

... : Elaine

Great to see that Sister Esmie is still alive and going strong, she was one of the persons who inspired me, prayed for me and encouraged me to give to others.
Thank you Sister Esmie

October 16, 2006

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