Editor's Review

Her recognition saw her awarded the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S.) in 2022 by former president Uhuru Kenyatta.

Veronica Moraa Pickering is one of the best examples of Kenyans who are making boss moves abroad. Born in Kenya, she moved to England with her parents in the late 60s and settled in East London.  

In London, her first job was in the public sector where she worked as a Social Worker, Children's Guardian, and as an International Child Protection Consultant for the United Nations (UN).

At the UN, she worked with non-government organizations and the judiciary, supporting vulnerable people and their families in the United Kingdom (UK) and across Africa.

In 2013, she was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire and approved by Her Majesty the Queen as an RAF Honorary Air Commodore for 504 (Nottingham County Squadron) in September 2018.


File image of Veronica Moraa Pickering.  [Photo: Courtesy]

Veronica is a Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Council Member and also a National Ambassador for the Woodland Trust and an Ambassador/Trustee for many organisations and charities.

Being Appointed High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire

Having served as a ​ Deputy Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire, she was in 2023 appointed by King Charles as the High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, thus becoming the first black person to hold that position.

Her appointment was to commence on 2 March 2024 after the retirement of Sir John Peace, CVO.

​The Office of High Sheriff Is an independent non-political Royal appointment for a single year. As the High Sheriff, her duties revolve around supporting the Crown, maintaining law and order and the administration of justice.

"I am absolutely delighted and privileged to be taking up this historic role and also to be the first woman of colour in Nottinghamshire to be High Sheriff. In my year in office I will be focusing on highlighting the achievements of young people and the communities and organisations that support them," she said while assuming the role.

In addition to the above roles, she is also an Executive Coach and Consultant, supporting companies and organisations across the UK. 

She is married to Nottinghamshire-born artist Roy Pickering and lives in North Nottinghamshire.

Her recognition saw her awarded with the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S.) in 2022 by former president Uhuru Kenyatta.