Cllr Balwinder Singh Dhillon was born in November 1955 in Kot Jaspat, District Tarn Taran (Amritsar), Punjab, India. In October 1974, I embarked on a journey to the United Kingdom, marking the beginning of a remarkable life of achievements in business and Slough Conservatives Party politics. Settling in Slough since December 1979, built a successful career, transitioning from a greengrocer to a takeaway shop owner, while raising a family with my beloved wife, Gurpreet.
In the early 2000s, Cllr Dhillon expanded his professional pursuits, joining Abbey Life Woodley Reading and Sun Life of Canada (Maidenhead) insurance companies. Later ventured into property investment, building a diverse portfolio across Central London, including Camden, Highgate, Hackney, City of London Corporation, Tower Hamlets, Southwark, and Wandsworth. Beyond my own successes, I also generously mentored many of my friends in the field, contributing to the growth of their properties in London area
Cllr Balwinder Dhillon’s political career began in March 1992, when the late John Watts MP invited me to join the Slough Conservative Party. In June 2004, I was encouraged by Mr Nik Stewart, then Chairman of the Slough Conservative Association, to stand as a candidate for Upton Ward in Slough. My leadership played a pivotal role in defeating Labour in all three Upton Ward seats.
After a brief hiatus, I re-entered politics in 2022, reinvigorating the Slough Conservative Association. Under our leadership, the association achieved a historic victory in May 2023, securing a majority with 21 Conservative councillors, working closely with SCA Chairman Cllr Ahmed Iftakhar.
In May 2023, Cllr Dhillon was proposed by Cllr Dexter Smith to be Deputy Mayor of Slough, and in May 2024, he made history as the **first Sikh Conservative Mayor of Slough, Berkshire**.
In my acceptance speech, I expressed my gratitude for the privilege of serving as Slough’s First Citizen, pledging to work collaboratively with councillors from all parties, ensuring fairness and equal opportunities for all representatives to advocate for their residents. I emphasized my commitment to addressing the key issues affecting the people of Slough, serving with integrity, and treating all with respect.
Throughout my tenure, Cllr Dhillon has remained dedicated to resolving local issues, working alongside all senior council officers to address concerns swiftly and effectively under challenging circumstances.
As Mayor, I proudly championed the NHS, recognising the invaluable contributions of doctors, dentists, nurses, and voluntary organisations. I have met many vulnerable community members receiving exceptional care in NHS facilities and care homes, demonstrating my deep appreciation for their tireless service.
Over the course of all my Mayoral duties, Cllr Dhillon has attended over 100's engagements across Slough and Berkshire. I have had the honour of meeting distinguished figures, including Lieutenants and Deputy Lieutenants of HM King Charles III, whilst also officiating British Citizenship ceremonies every other Wednesday.
Cllr Dhillon takes immense pride in serving all members of the community with honour, integrity, and unwavering dedication, ensuring my tenure leaves a lasting positive impact on the people of Slough.