Shivani Raja, born on July 21, 1994, is a British politician and a proud member of the Conservative Party. Since July 2024, she has served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Leicester East, a constituency with a rich history and a diverse population. Her election marked a significant milestone, not only for her personally but also for the Conservative Party, as she secured the only seat gained by the Tories in the 2024 UK general election. Raja’s journey—from a first-generation British citizen rooted in Leicester to a trailblazing MP who took her parliamentary oath on the Bhagavad Gita—offers an inspiring narrative of resilience, ambition, and community dedication.
In this detailed biography, we explore Shivani Raja’s early life, education, career, and her meteoric rise in British politics. We’ll also delve into her historic victory in Leicester East, her policy priorities, and her vision for the future, making this a comprehensive guide for anyone searching for "Shivani Raja Conservative Party biography" or "Who is Shivani Raja MP?"
Early Life and Family Background
Shivani Raja was born in Rushey Mead, a vibrant suburb of Leicester, to parents who immigrated to the UK in the 1970s. Her father hails from a Kenyan-Gujarati background, while her mother’s roots trace back to Rajkot, India. Growing up as a first-generation British citizen, Raja was immersed in the cultural richness of Leicester’s diverse communities, which shaped her identity and values. Her parents instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for education and opportunity—values that would later define her political career.
Leicester, known for its multiculturalism, provided Raja with a unique lens through which to view the world. Her upbringing in Rushey Mead, an area with a significant British-Indian population, fostered a sense of pride in her heritage, which she would later showcase during her political campaigns and parliamentary swearing-in ceremony.
Education and Early Career
Shivani Raja’s academic journey reflects her determination and intellectual curiosity. She attended Herrick Primary School, Soar Valley College, and Wyggeston and Queen Elizabeth I College in Leicester, laying a solid foundation for her higher education. Raja went on to study at De Montfort University, where she graduated with a First Class Honours degree in Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science. Her choice of study highlighted her interest in innovation and practical solutions—traits that would later translate into her political approach.
After university, Raja embarked on a career in the cosmetics industry, working with renowned brands such as Superdrug, The Body Shop, No7, Soap & Glory, and Botanics. From June 2018 to December 2019, she was employed at Superdrug, followed by a stint at The Body Shop from October 2019 to June 2023. Her roles involved developing skincare products, experimenting with new textures, and contributing to foundation formulations—experiences that honed her problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Beyond her corporate career, Raja played an active role in her family’s property and hospitality business, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit. She also worked with RÜUT Homes, a company founded by her husband, Utkarsh Thakkar, further showcasing her versatility and business acumen. In 2017, Raja competed in the Miss India UK beauty pageant, reaching the semi-finals—a testament to her confidence and ability to connect with people.
Entry into Politics with the Conservative Party
Shivani Raja’s transition into politics was a natural extension of her desire to serve her community. In May 2024, she was selected as the Conservative Party candidate for Leicester East, a constituency that had been a Labour stronghold for 37 years. Her candidacy came at a pivotal moment for the Tories, who were facing significant challenges in the lead-up to the 2024 general election amid a Labour-dominated political landscape.
Raja’s campaign was rooted in her deep ties to Leicester East. She positioned herself as a candidate "From Leicester, For Leicester," emphasizing her local roots and understanding of the constituency’s needs. Her platform focused on uniting communities, creating jobs, retaining young talent, and addressing long-standing issues like infrastructure and illegal immigration—policies aligned with the Conservative Party’s broader vision under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
During her campaign, Raja connected with Leicester’s British-Indian community through cultural events like garba dances and temple visits, reinforcing her commitment to her heritage. Her approach resonated with voters disillusioned by decades of Labour leadership, paving the way for her historic win.
Historic Victory in Leicester East
On July 4, 2024, Shivani Raja made history by winning the Leicester East seat with 14,526 votes, defeating Labour’s Rajesh Agrawal (10,100 votes) and Liberal Democrat Zuffar Haq (6,329 votes). The victory was a rare bright spot for the Conservative Party in an election that saw Labour secure a landslide with over 410 seats, while the Tories slumped to just 121. Raja’s win ended Labour’s 37-year grip on Leicester East, a constituency that had not elected a Conservative MP since 1987.
The election was particularly significant given Leicester East’s recent history. In 2022, the area witnessed tensions between Hindu and Muslim communities following an India-Pakistan cricket match, which Raja later cited as a moment when residents felt let down by previous MPs like Claudia Webbe. Webbe, the incumbent who ran as an independent after being expelled from Labour, and Keith Vaz, a former MP running for One Leicester, finished fourth and fifth, respectively. Raja’s victory symbolized a fresh start for the constituency, earning her the nickname "a breath of fresh air" among voters.
On July 10, 2024, Raja took her parliamentary oath on the Bhagavad Gita, a Hindu scripture, proudly swearing allegiance to King Charles III. She shared her pride on social media, stating, “It was an honour to be sworn into Parliament today to represent Leicester East. I was truly proud to swear my allegiance to His Majesty King Charles on the Gita.” This moment underscored her commitment to her Indian roots and resonated with the UK’s Indian diaspora.
Policy Priorities and Vision as an MP
As the Conservative MP for Leicester East, Shivani Raja has outlined a clear vision for her constituency. Her priorities include improving local infrastructure, fostering community cohesion, supporting small businesses, and tackling illegal immigration—a stance consistent with Conservative Party policies. Drawing from her business experience, she advocates for economic growth and opportunities that keep Leicester’s talent local.
Raja’s visit to Nepal in early 2025 with the Coalition for Global Prosperity further highlighted her interest in international development. Writing for Conservative Home, she emphasized the mutual benefits of UK aid, stating, “Britain’s commitment to international development is not just about altruism; it is about mutual prosperity.” This reflects her belief in strategic global partnerships that strengthen both Leicester East and the UK as a whole.
Her work in Parliament has already begun to take shape. Raja has engaged in debates, such as the Employment Rights Bill 2024-26, and signed Early Day Motions, signaling her active role in representing her constituents’ interests. She also addresses local challenges like flooding, celebrating community achievements and promoting unity through events like Makar Sankranti.
Personal Life and Community Engagement
Shivani Raja is married to Utkarsh Thakkar, with whom she collaborates in the family business. An avid animal lover, she has a pet dog and frequently shares her travel experiences on social media, offering a glimpse into her personal life. Her engagement with Leicester East extends beyond politics—she attends cultural and spiritual events, such as those at the Maher Centre, where she has praised the community’s vibrant spirit.
Raja’s ability to balance her professional, political, and personal commitments has endeared her to constituents, who see her as a relatable and dedicated leader.
Why Shivani Raja Matters in British Politics
Shivani Raja’s rise in the Conservative Party is a story of breaking barriers. At 30 years old, she represents a new generation of Tory leaders, bringing diversity and fresh perspectives to a party navigating a challenging political era. Her victory in Leicester East—a seat Labour held for nearly four decades—demonstrates her ability to connect with voters and challenge the status quo.
For those searching for "Shivani Raja biography," her journey offers a compelling narrative: a Leicester-born daughter of immigrants who turned her education, business experience, and community ties into a historic political career. As she continues her work in Parliament, Raja is poised to leave a lasting impact on both Leicester East and the Conservative Party.
Conclusion
Shivani Raja’s biography is one of triumph, heritage, and service. From her roots in Rushey Mead to her groundbreaking election as the Conservative MP for Leicester East, she embodies the potential of hard work and local pride. As 2025, Raja remains an active voice in British politics, championing her constituents’ needs while upholding Conservative values. Whether you’re researching "Shivani Raja Conservative Party" or "Leicester East MP," her story is a testament to the power of representation and resilience in modern Britain.
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