New Children’s Mayor of Leeds officially announced

Mason spent much of the summer holidays campaigning in an election that saw nearly 8,000 local children and young people cast their vote in support of 12 candidates from across Leeds.

Campaigning successfully on a manifesto about children’s mental and physical health, promoting kindness and community spirit, and the creation of an event to bring children together from different backgrounds. He will now be invited to speak at a forthcoming full council meeting to ask for the council’s support in making his manifesto a reality.

The election marks the start of an unforgettable year for Mason, with a vast array of upcoming opportunities for him, where he will be representing the children of Leeds. This includes attending the Remembrance Sunday Parade and taking to the stage at the annual Child Friendly Leeds Live! event on Millennium Square.

The Children’s Mayor Programme, now in its 19^th year is designed to help children in the city develop a greater understanding of democracy and the importance of voting as well as encouraging them to think about the role they could play in improving their city or communities. The programme fits within the wider vision of creating a Child Friendly Leeds where every child and young person feels they have a voice.

To follow the progress of the Children’s Mayor on Twitter, please see @LSChildrenMayor.

Mason Hicks, Children’s Mayor of Leeds, said:

“I am shocked - I am super proud of myself. Thank you to everyone who voted for me.”

Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Robert W Gettings MBE JP, said:

“I’m overwhelmed and thrilled by the 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 Mason on his winning manifesto and campaign.”

Councillor Fiona Venner, executive member for children and families, said:

“Congratulations to Mason on being elected as the new Children’s Mayor of Leeds. His winning manifesto focusing on the theme of children’s mental and physical health as well as the promotion of kindness and community spirit is truly inspiring.

 “Giving our children and young people a voice is so important, and the Children’s Mayor programme continues to provide fantastic opportunities for them to have their say and help make a difference to their city and communities.”