From smartphone repair to the heart of British politics: the rise of Josh Babarinde
In short: Born in Eastbourne, Josh Babarinde transitioned from social entrepreneurship to national office. After founding a venture to help at-risk youth through technology repair, he entered parliament in 2024. His career trajectory reflects a unique blend of grassroots community service, criminal justice advocacy, and a rapid ascent within the Liberal Democrat party.
Joshua Thomas Aderele Babarinde, born in 1993, has built a career defined by social impact and political engagement. After studying politics and government at the London School of Economics, he participated in the Year Here fellowship. His early work as a youth volunteer in east London focused on steering young people away from gang involvement and criminal activity. This experience led him to establish Cracked It, a social enterprise that trains young ex-offenders and at-risk individuals to repair smartphones. The initiative earned significant recognition, including awards from the Centre for Social Justice and the Evening Standard.
Babarinde’s commitment to social causes extended into his professional roles. In 2020, he took on a leadership position overseeing learning and innovation at the School for Social Entrepreneurs. His contributions to criminal justice and the economy were formally acknowledged that same year when he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he further demonstrated his community focus by training as a volunteer vaccinator with St John Ambulance in his hometown of Eastbourne.
His political journey began with a 2019 candidacy for Bethnal Green and Bow, followed by his election to the Eastbourne Borough Council in 2021. By 2024, he successfully campaigned for the Eastbourne parliamentary seat, defeating his former teacher, Caroline Ansell, with a majority exceeding 12,000 votes. Since his election, he has taken on the role of parliamentary spokesperson for Justice and was elected President of the Liberal Democrats in 2025, beginning his term in January 2026. Beyond his political duties, Babarinde is a trustee of the Towner Art Gallery and has been recognized for his advocacy as an out LGBTQ+ parliamentarian.
Babarinde’s policy ideas often bridge the gap between social welfare and economic development. In a 2022 contribution to a book edited by Sir Ed Davey, he proposed transforming council estates into hubs for business incubation. His personal life has also intersected with his public profile; he married NHS doctor Connor Cummings in 2026, with ceremonies held in both Edinburgh and Eastbourne.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Josh Babarinde
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