Karen Barford is a Labour councillor for Queen’s Park Ward on Brighton and Hove City Council. She is the lead councillor for adult social care.

What is your favourite place in Sussex?

The South Downs – I feel lucky to have them on my doorstep. I am always astounded by the most remarkable 360 degree view of our beautiful countryside and coastline.

What do you love most about living in Sussex?

I love the diversity of residents and visitors, particularly in Brighton and Hove. You can be yourself here and I like to think it is a very welcoming and tolerant place.

What advice do you have for your 12-year-old self?

I would encourage myself to have the confidence to speak up about the things that I feel are wrong, especially when other people are treated unfairly. As a child, I was often told to accept inequality as a natural part of life but I never felt this was true in my heart.

What is your most valued possession?

That has to be my home. In my early 20s, I found myself a homeless parent for a short time and remember how scary that was. Everyone should have a roof over their head and a safe place they can call home.

What is your biggest regret?

I can’t regret anything really. The good stuff holds fond memories and the more difficult experiences have made me the person that I am.

What is your biggest fear?

I think, like many people, it’s the growing intolerance and injustice in society.

What is your proudest achievement?

Without a doubt, it is my four children. Like many parents, getting them to 18 safe and well felt like the biggest achievement ever. After having cancer in 2005, I am forever thankful that I was around to see it.

Which five people (living or dead) would you invite to your fantasy dinner party?

Ella Fitzgerald, for the way her beautiful voice makes everyone feel; Rosa Parks for her remarkable strength of character and to hear more about her experiences; Alan Johnston, the journalist, because he impressed me when I heard him speak about his kidnap in Palestine; Graham Norton, for his humour; and Robert De Niro.