On Friday, 6th October, Mohammed Hussein, a 10-year-old student from Ireland Wood Primary School, was announced as the new Children’s Mayor of Leeds. This announcement was made by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Al Garthwaite, at a special event held at Leeds Civic Hall.
Mohammed is the 20th Children’s Mayor, having dedicated much of his summer to campaigning in an election that witnessed a record-breaking eleven thousand local children and young people casting their votes in support of twelve candidates from various parts of Leeds.
Advocating for climate change action in his manifesto, Mohammed will soon be given the opportunity to address a forthcoming full council meeting, seeking the council’s backing in turning his vision into reality.
This election marks the commencement of an extraordinary year for Mohammed, during which he will engage in a wide range of upcoming activities, representing the children of Leeds. This will include participation in the Remembrance Sunday Parade and taking the stage at the annual Child-Friendly Leeds Live event on Millennium Square.
The Children’s Mayor programme, now in its 20th year, aims to empower children and young people from all corners of Leeds, fostering a deeper comprehension of democracy and the significance of voting. Additionally, it encourages them to contemplate the roles they could assume in enhancing their communities. This initiative aligns with the broader aspiration of establishing a Child-Friendly Leeds, where every child and young person feels their voice matters.
For updates on the Children’s Mayor’s progress, please visit @LSChildrenMayor on X.
Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Al Garthwaite, said, “I’m overwhelmed and thrilled by the record number of children who have been involved with electing the new children’s mayor of Leeds, including those who were nominated and all 12 final candidates.
“They are an inspiration, not only to their peers and other children, but to me, and to anyone working to help make Leeds the best city for children to live in. They should all be extremely proud of their achievement. And, of course, well done and congratulations to Mohammed on his winning manifesto and campaign.”
Councillor Fiona Venner, executive member for children’s social care and health partnerships, said, “Congratulations to Mohammed on being elected as the new children’s mayor of Leeds. His winning manifesto focuses on the theme of tackling climate change and is truly inspiring.
“Giving our children and young people a voice is so important, and the children’s mayor programme has continued to do this over the last 20 years, providing fantastic opportunities for them to have their say and help make a difference to their city and communities.”
