Behind the badge: Commander Dr. Alison Heydari

In the pulsating core of London, right on the Victoria Embankment, stands the unmistakable revolving sign of New Scotland Yard, signifying the epicenter of the Metropolitan Police.

Within its maze of corridors and offices, on a particularly lively floor, a spacious office bathes in the golden light streaming through its expansive windows.

The fortified glass acts as a barrier, muting the city’s vibrant sounds. In this serene setting, Black Wall St. Media has secured an exclusive opportunity: a conversation with the nation’s highest-ranking black female officer, Commander Dr. Alison Heydari.

The Journey Begins: Meet Commander Allison Heydari

Commander Allison Heydari is not your typical police officer. Her journey into the force is a story of serendipity and a genuine desire to make a difference in her community.

A 22-year veteran of the police force, Commander Heydari has achieved tremendous success, all while remaining grounded by her humble beginnings. But how did she find herself in this profession?

She humorously recalls the moment when her career path shifted from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

While living in Hampshire and contemplating a career change, she stumbled upon a tiny advert in a local newspaper, almost too minuscule to read. A jest with her husband about becoming a police officer led to a realization – it might not be such a far-fetched idea after all.

She was seeking a career that offered excitement, diversity, and the chance to make a real impact. It was an impromptu ride-along with a police officer that sealed the deal, leaving her utterly fascinated by the unpredictable nature of the job.

But her decision to join the police was not solely influenced by happenstance. It was deeply rooted in her upbringing and the values instilled by her parents. As the child of Guyanese immigrants in London, her home was a melting pot of cultures and diversity.

Her parents’ open-heartedness and dedication to their community left an indelible mark on young Allison. Their home became a sanctuary for people from around the world, where all were welcome. This upbringing laid the foundation for her commitment to community service and social justice.

In a world where perceptions often shape our reality, Commander Allison Heydari, a distinguished officer in the Metropolitan Police, is working relentlessly to demystify the enigmatic world behind the badge.

Her innovative project, “Behind the Badge,” peels back the layers of policing, offering a glimpse into the real lives and experiences of officers, challenging misconceptions, and fostering trust and understanding within communities.

In this candid conversation, Commander Heydari opens up about her career, her personal journey, and the importance of transparency in building a more diverse and inclusive police force.

The Imperfect Path to Perfection

Commander Heydari’s career in the police was far from a smooth ride. She found herself amidst numerous challenges, faced barriers, and encountered misconceptions. Yet, she persevered, driven by the desire to make a positive impact on her community.

Her journey saw her rise through the ranks, achieve numerous accomplishments, and earn a doctorate in social policy, a testament to her unwavering commitment to personal growth.

Her experiences within the police were diverse, from managing high-profile cases related to child abuse and safeguarding to tackling hate crimes and working on complex issues like female genital mutilation. She even had the opportunity to teach international criminal justice in New York for six months, further broadening her horizons.

Changing Perceptions: ‘Behind the Badge’

But Commander Heydari’s work goes beyond her professional accomplishments. She is a trailblazer in humanizing the police force. Through “Behind the Badge,” an innovative project she initiated, she brings a human face to the uniform.

The project showcases the officers behind the badge, revealing their personal stories, challenges, and aspirations. These candid conversations challenge stereotypes and offer the public a more comprehensive understanding of those who serve and protect.

The project has been met with a warm reception, emphasizing the importance of honesty and transparency. “Behind the Badge” strives to build trust, encourage diversity, and open up conversations between the police and the communities they serve.

Commander Heydari firmly believes that increasing trust and understanding is crucial in recruiting a more diverse and inclusive police force.

The Future Ahead

As Commander Heydari looks ahead, she envisions a career path that leads to more significant influence and achievement. She aims to continue her commitment to community policing, inspiring more officers to engage genuinely with the communities they serve.

But there’s more to Commander Heydari than her uniform. She is passionate about life outside of policing. She enjoys horse riding, sharing memorable moments with her husband, and indulging in her love for skiing. Her bucket list includes exploring places like China, Jordan, and her parents’ homeland, Guyana.

Ultimately, Commander Allison Heydari is an embodiment of perseverance, commitment to service, and a desire to change perceptions. She is on a mission to bridge the gap between the police and the public, one candid conversation at a time, humanizing the badge and building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Commander Heydari’s legacy is bound to be one of making a positive difference, leaving an indelible mark on the police force, and fostering trust and understanding between law enforcement and the diverse communities they serve.