First Youth Mayor team promises voice for young people

The election of the first ever Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor in Wandsworth this year marked a landmark moment.

It highlights a commitment to ensuring that young people’s voices are heard, recognised and given space and influence.

For 18-year-old Millie Quinn, being elected as Youth Mayor is “just the start of young people’s perspectives being heard”.

The Year 13 student – who is studying for A-levels in politics, sociology and history – is determined to use the platform to forge strong bonds between leaders within the council, the diverse communities that make up borough of Wandsworth, and young people.

“The leaders I’ve met have been genuinely interested in our thoughts,” acknowledges Millie, who is also involved with youth charities including Safer London, and a member of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Youth Affairs.

“Young people have so many amazing thoughts and different things to say and this has shown there is an interest in youth politics in the borough.”

With interests including sexual violence, social justice and poor health among young people, Millie has been able to share perspectives with a cross-section of the community.

Along with Deputy Youth Mayor, Favour Oniri, the duo had been involved with Wandsworth’s 30-strong Youth Council before being elected to their new roles in May through a competitive ballot process.

Positive changes

The goal is to raise awareness of young people’s issues and upskill them to advocate for positive changes within the community, with projects such as a financial literacy event already making a difference.

Heading to events including the launch of the Wandsworth Arts Fringe and the green-focused Hazelfest in June have cemented the roles as a crucial part of community life.

Meanwhile, visits to charitable organisations including Chantelle’s Kitchen, as well as events organised by Balham and Tooting Community Association, and the launch of the new Roehampton Family Hub, have given a platform to the young people.

First-year politics and international relations university student Favour, 18, adds: “It’s about sharing opportunities and really helps people to connect with their borough and learn about the real struggles that people face in the world around us.”

Like Wandsworth’s Mayor Sana Jafri, both Millie and Favour have handpicked charities to support during their time in office as Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor.

Wandsworth Welcomes Refugees and Battersea-based Sound Minds, which supports people with mental health challenges through the arts and music, are the young leaders’ chosen charities.

“It’s a privilege to be able to have such a role and I hope that people that look like me, ethnically and gender-wise, can take inspiration in furthering their platforms and reaching out to the world around them,” adds Favour, who has a particular interest in young people’s mental health, and stronger and safer communities.

Find out more on Instagram @wbcyouthcouncil or email Wandsworth Youth Council Facilitator Keziah Gordon.