Sarah aims to become Young Mayor and empower others to overcome barriers

New City College student Sarah Khanom is bidding to become her borough’s Young Mayor in order to help young people achieve success and overcome barriers.

Sarah, 17, who studies A Levels in Psychology, English and Sociology at New City College’s Attlee A Level Academy in East London, has made it to the top 15 candidates in the contest to become the Young Mayor of Tower Hamlets.

She is passionate about working with young people and building platforms where everyone is empowered to succeed.

Sarah, who hopes to go to university to study social sciences after her A Levels, said: “I have a vision to create a space where young people feel seen and heard – where they have the power to represent themselves and achieve their goals. I want to work to provide a platform that brings diversity together, accessibility regardless of background and abilities, and employment opportunities so that young people can be inspired to step out of their comfort zone.”

She added: “I am proposing a partnership between schools and youth clubs so that there is a support system in place as well as free enrichment activities to create well-rounded individuals.”

Sarah enjoys drama and is part of the Half Moon Theatre where she performs in shows and productions. She is also a member of the Young Urban Arts Foundation and has written music compositions.

She decided to run for Young Mayor after feeling that teenagers in the area did not really have a voice and they needed to be more involved in decision-making relating to their lives.

She said: “My journey, although a bit bumpy at times, has challenged me to learn the true meaning of resilience as I discovered more and more the challenges and barriers that we, as young people striving for success, often face.

“Initially I was hesitant to apply but I am glad I have done so. I have acquired numerous skills that I didn’t know I had, and during my campaigning I have met some great people who share similar visions to me. I was thrilled when I was shortlisted to the top 15 out of all the candidates who applied – something I never anticipated I would achieve.

“If I am elected, I hope my agenda will lead to empowered young people, improved mental health, and ultimately a progressive society of successful individuals, regardless of background or abilities.”

The elections for the Young Mayor will take place from December 4 to December 10 2023. All 11 to 17-year-olds who live in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, will receive a polling card from their school with details on how to vote. More information can be found here. The result will be announced at an inauguration event at Tower Hamlets Town Hall on 13 December.

Sarah’s three point manifesto proposal is to:

• Provide platforms to be seen and heard, such as youth centres, career services, employment opportunities within FE settings and build awareness around this
• Remove barriers and make all platforms accessible to include support for diverse needs
• Introduce a platform to address young people’s health, including mental health, via creative methods as opposed to traditional counselling

Apply today to join our successful Attlee A Level Academy and start your journey to a fantastic future!