Islington’s young people have elected 14 new youth councillors to represent their interests and advocate for issues that matter most to them over the next two years.

The results were revealed at an event held at Islington Assembly Hall on Monday, 25 November, following an election that saw 4,924 votes cast by young people aged 11 to 17 earlier this month.

This year’s election drew a record-breaking 48 candidates, campaigning on diverse topics such as mental health, tackling poverty, spaces and activities for young people, equal opportunities, the environment, and youth safety.

The Youth Council plays a vital role in shaping local policies and services by working closely with the council to ensure that young people’s perspectives are at the heart of decision-making.

Early next year, the newly elected Youth Council will appoint Islington’s next Young Mayor.

Outgoing Young Mayor, Tyra Bannerman-Hull, said: “Being the Young Mayor of Islington has been a truly wondrous experience in which I’ve had the opportunity to meet various individuals and take part in so many exciting activities.

“It has been an incredible honour to serve the young people of Islington, and I wish the best to the next youth councillors. I know that in the years to come they will demonstrate the respect and determination needed to build a better Islington.”

One of the successful candidates, Jimmy Joseph, said: “Thank you to everyone who voted for me and believes in me, I will do my best to give young people a voice”

Cllr Michelline Safi-Ngongo, Executive Member for Children, Young People, and Families, said: “Islington’s Youth Council is an essential part of our mission to create a more equal borough. These young leaders bring fresh perspectives that are often missing in local government and it’s vital that their voices are heard. I would like to thank the outgoing youth councillors for all that they have done over the last two years.

“I am inspired by the enthusiasm and talent of every one of 49 young people who stood as candidates in the election. Congratulations to our new youth councillors, and a big thank you to everyone who participated in this important election.”

The newly elected youth councillors are:

Rayana Abdirahman

Arissa Ahmed

Thomas Brown

Matthew Coleman

Milo Flett

Zayden Hipgrave

Harry Husband

Jimmy Joseph

D’Eric Koy

Claris Lawrence

Ryden O’Brien-Kingston

Renata Qorri

Zackariya Yahya

Ayman Yusuf