King Charles appoints Veronica Moraa Lord-Lieutenant in UK

Kenya-born Veronica Moraa Pickering, a prominent figure in the United Kingdom, has been appointed by King Charles III as His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant for the County of Nottinghamshire.

The appointment follows the retirement of Sir John Peace, CVO, on March 2, 2024.

A Lord-Lieutenant is the British monarch's personal representative in each lieutenancy area of the United Kingdom.

"I am absolutely delighted and privileged to be the first woman of colour taking up this historic role," said Veronica.

Veronica was born in Kisii County in Kenya before she moved with her parents to the UK in the 1960s.

The English language and culture were completely new to her, meaning that to understand and navigate it, she became an active observer and listener early on in life, skills which today enable her to attune to the individual needs of her clients and organisations.

Veronica, along with her husband, Nottinghamshire-born artist Roy Pickering, proudly calls Nottinghamshire home. Together, they have raised two adult children.

Veronica first made history in the UK army as the first black woman to be appointed the Royal Air Force honorary Air Commodore, the equivalent of a commodore in the Rotak Navy or a brigadier in the British Army or the Royal Marines.

Veronica Moraa Pickering. He has been appointed by King Charles III as His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant for the County of Nottinghamshire. (Photo: Nottingham College)

“All the time I was studying, I thought that is not quite enough, I need to do more…but I had a problem, that I hadn’t even realized at the time that when I write I find it difficult sometimes to put the right words in the right order but when I speak, I am fine,” said Pickering.

It was in her search to move into life coaching that made her crossed paths with a university lecturer, who advised her to get counselling.

“I described my problem to her and she said that...I think you are dyslexic,” said Veronica.

Recognition

Veronica's journey is one of devotion and service, rooted in her extensive career as a UK Social Worker, Children's Guardian, and International Child Protection Consultant.

Her unwavering efforts in supporting vulnerable individuals and families have earned her recognition, including the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S.) in 2022, acknowledging her outstanding service to Kenya.

Veronica Moraa with Nottingham College students. (Photo: Nottingham College)

Beyond her professional endeavours, Veronica is deeply committed to charitable causes. She actively supports arts and wildlife conservation charities, serving as a trustee for esteemed organizations such as the RSPB and Nottinghamshire YMCA (Robin Hood Group).

She is also an ambassador for The Woodland Trust and the UK RAF Museum. Her dedication extends to education and community development. Currently serving as the High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, she also holds a visiting Professorship at the Lincoln International Business School.

Veronica Moraa Pickering's appointment as His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire is a testament to her unwavering dedication and commitment to making a positive impact on communities, fostering inclusivity, and breaking down barriers.

The Office of High Sheriff Is an independent non-political Roy appointment for a single year. Although the duties have evolved over time, the High Sheriff has always had an important role in supporting the Crown, maintaining law and order and the administration of justice.

Veronica has made history as the first black woman to hold the following appointments: Deputy Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire (appointed in 2013), RAF Honorary Air Commodore for 504-County of Nottingham (appointed in 2018), High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire (appointed in April 2023).