The votes are in! Zubin Burley, 14, has been elected as the new Young Mayor of Barking and Dagenham.

Zubin was recently voted into the role by his peers in the Barking and Dagenham Youth Forum, picking up the baton from his predecessor, Labella Anum.

The new Young Mayor has been a member of the youth forum for the past year and was keen to stand for the position. 

After being elected, Zubin said: “I see it as an honour to represent the young people of Barking and Dagenham.

“During my term in office, I want to work with my peers to build a brighter future for our generation and future generations.

“Together, we’ll be the change we want to see.”

Zubin’s term runs from this month until February 2023, and one of his first tasks is to decide on a charity to fundraise for. The youngster will work with his peers to raise money, and he’s determined to match the success of previous Young Mayor, Labella, who raised over £4,300 for her chosen charity, Refuge.

He’ll attend 15 formal events during his term and represent the voices of young people across the borough on topics important to them.

Councillor Evelyn Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement, said: “I wish Zubin and his team the very best for the year ahead, and I look forward to seeing what they achieve.

“Labella did a brilliant job during her term as Young Mayor, acting as an inspirational role model for her peers and raising a huge sum of money for Refuge."