What epitomises Christmas in London for you?

I was born and raised in London but it is the simple things like spending quality time with family and friends.

What’s your earliest Christmas memory?

Spending Christmas with my whole family at my granny’s house. I can recall receiving a pair of red furry earmuffs from my aunt and a white faux fur cape with a matching toy rabbit from my uncle, who bought it in New York.

What smells and tastes do you associate with the festive period?

Candles and lighting play a part alongside the smell and taste of roasted walnuts.

Do you prefer Christmas pudding, Christmas Cake or a Chocolate Yule Log?

I love chocolate so it would have to be the Chocolate Yule Log.

What’s on your Christmas list to give and/or to receive, from The Royal Exchange?

I will give a few mentoring sessions at The Fortnum’s Bar and Restaurant at The Royal Exchange with my next generation diversity leaders. These are the winners for the 2019/20 scholarships at The Miranda Brawn Diversity Leadership Foundation. I will definitely buy some perfume and scarves at Hermès as gifts. That said, I am also looking for a little treat for myself at Boodles so let’s see what Santa brings this year, as I have been very good!

What’s your Christmas gift-wrapping style?

Very simple and quick.

Do you have any special, unique or unconventional Christmas traditions?

I wake up on Christmas Day in a new set of silk pyjamas, if that counts?!

Do you own a Christmas jumper?

I have one Christmas jumper that is worn strictly for work purposes. Each year we have a Christmas jumper day where the proceeds go to charity.

What’s your favourite Christmas film?

It has to be Trading Places starring Eddie Murphy.

Do you have a favourite Christmas song?

The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole and Do They Know it’s Christmas by Band Aid.

What signifies the start of the festive season for you?

Christmas lights. I try to go to at least one switch-on each year in London.

What do you think is the best way to help others at Christmastime?

It is so important to think about those who are homeless, especially at Christmas. We have a big problem in London and everyone can play their part. I have helped out in soup kitchens, bought tea and coffee or given some warm food away as a few examples to help others. Sometimes it is as simple as just being kind. Find your own way to give back – not just at Christmas but throughout the whole year.

Dr Miranda Brawn is a multi-award-winning senior business, finance and diversity executive, philanthropist and social entrepreneur. She founded non-profit charity, The Miranda Brawn Diversity Leadership Foundation in January 2016 with an aim to champion, educate and support young leaders for success and positive social change; mbdiversityleadershipfoundation.com