Wilhelmina Tokcumboh “Mina” Smallman was born on October 29, 1956, in Middlesex, England. Her diverse heritage includes a Scottish mother, Catherine, and a Nigerian father, Bill, which enriched her upbringing with a blend of cultures. This multicultural background played a significant role in shaping her inclusive worldview and commitment to social justice.
Education and Teaching Career
Mina pursued her passion for the arts by studying drama, English, and voice at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, earning a Bachelor of Education degree in 1988. She dedicated 15 years to education as a drama teacher, inspiring countless students with her creativity and dedication. Her commitment to education culminated in her role as Assistant Principal at John Kelly Girls’ Technology College by 2005.
Transition to Ordained Ministry
Feeling a profound calling, Mina transitioned from teaching to theology. She trained for ordination through the North Thames Ministerial Training Course and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Contextual Theology from Middlesex University in 2006. Her ordination as a deacon in 2006 and as a priest in 2007 marked the beginning of a new chapter in her service to the community.
Pioneering Role as Archdeacon of Southend
In June 2013, Mina was appointed as the Archdeacon of Southend in the Diocese of Chelmsford, making history as the Church of England’s first female archdeacon from a Black or minority ethnic background. Her tenure from September 2013 until her retirement in December 2016 was marked by her unwavering commitment to inclusivity and social justice within the church and the broader community.
Personal Life and Family
Mina Smallman married Christopher Smallman in 1992, and they built a life together rooted in faith, love, and resilience. Their relationship was defined by mutual support and a shared commitment to family and community service. Christopher has been a pillar of strength in Mina’s life, standing by her through both joyful moments and unimaginable tragedies.
Children and Family Bond
Mina was a devoted mother to three daughters. Her eldest daughter, Bibaa Henry, was born in 1974 from a previous relationship, and she had two more daughters, including Nicole Smallman, with Christopher. Mina often spoke about the strong bond she shared with her children, emphasizing the importance of love, unity, and faith in raising them. She was deeply proud of their accomplishments and their compassionate nature.
Tragedy and Loss
In June 2020, Mina’s life took a devastating turn when her daughters, Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman, were tragically murdered in Fryent Country Park, London. The loss was incomprehensible, and the events surrounding the case brought significant attention to issues of violence against women, police misconduct, and systemic racial injustice.
Following the tragedy, Mina turned her grief into a powerful force for change. She became an advocate for women’s safety, justice reform, and accountability within law enforcement, ensuring that her daughters’ memories would not be forgotten. Despite the immense pain, she has continued to speak out and raise awareness, using her platform to push for meaningful societal change.
Strength in Faith and Advocacy
Mina’s deep-rooted faith played a crucial role in helping her navigate the immense sorrow of losing her daughters. Instead of retreating into despair, she chose to channel her pain into activism, drawing from her experiences as a former church leader to speak on issues of justice, racial equality, and police reform. She has been a prominent voice in advocating for families who have lost loved ones to violent crimes, ensuring that justice is served and systemic changes are made.
Advocacy and Campaigning
The devastating loss of her daughters led Mina to channel her grief into activism. She became a vocal advocate for women’s safety and systemic police reform, addressing issues of misogyny and racism within law enforcement. Her courageous stance has inspired many and brought significant attention to these critical issues.
Physical Appearance
Mina Smallman stands at an approximate height of 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm). She is known for her dignified presence, often seen with short-cropped hair and a warm, approachable demeanor that reflects her compassionate nature and resilience.
Net Worth as of 2024
As of 2024, specific details regarding Mina Smallman’s net worth are not publicly disclosed. Her life’s work has been primarily centered around service, education, and advocacy rather than financial gain.
Latest News
In July 2024, Mina Smallman released her memoir, “A Better Tomorrow: Life Lessons in Hope and Strength,” offering an intimate look into her life, faith, and journey through unimaginable loss. The memoir has received critical acclaim for its heartfelt narrative and inspirational message.
Detailed Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Wilhelmina Tokcumboh “Mina” Smallman |
| Date of Birth | October 29, 1956 |
| Place of Birth | Middlesex, England |
| Parents | Catherine (Scottish descent), Bill (Nigerian heritage) |
| Education | – Bachelor of Education, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (1988) – Bachelor of Arts in Contextual Theology, Middlesex University (2006) |
| Career | – Drama Teacher (15 years) – Assistant Principal, John Kelly Girls’ Technology College (by 2005) – Ordained Deacon (2006) – Ordained Priest (2007) – Archdeacon of Southend (2013–2016) |
| Spouse | Christopher (married in 1992) |
| Children | – Bibaa Henry (1974–2020) – Nicole Smallman (1992–2020) – One other daughter |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm) |
| Net Worth (2024) | Not publicly disclosed |
| Publications | “A Better Tomorrow: Life Lessons in Hope and Strength” (2024) |
| Honors | Included in BBC’s 100 Women list (2021) |
| Advocacy | Campaigner for women’s safety and police reform following the tragic loss of her daughters |
Social Media Accounts
As of now, there are no official public social media accounts associated with Mina Smallman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Mina Smallman?
A: Mina Smallman is a retired Anglican priest and former educator, notable for being the Church of England’s first female archdeacon from a Black or minority ethnic background. She is also an advocate for women’s safety and police reform.
Q: What is “A Better Tomorrow: Life Lessons in Hope and Strength” about?
A: It is Mina Smallman’s memoir, released in July 2024, detailing her life experiences, including her journey through personal tragedy and her advocacy work.
Q: How has Mina Smallman contributed to social justice?
A: Following the tragic loss of her daughters in 2020, Mina has been a vocal advocate for women’s safety and has campaigned for systemic reforms within law enforcement to address issues of misogyny and racism.