Newham’s young people elect their mayor

THOUSANDS of young people across Newham have chosen 17-year-old Ali Mohamed to be their new Young Mayor.

Eleven to 17-year-olds who live, work or study in the borough could vote from a shortlist of 15.

Ali said: “I am so proud and excited to be the Young Mayor and be the voice of young people in our borough. I thank all my supporters and I look forward to working together to make Newham a fantastic place for young people.”

Elections were held in schools, colleges and ConnexXons’ centres, with around 7,500 teenagers voting.

Ali, who studies at Newham Sixth Form College, Plaistow, triumphed with more than 1,200 votes.

Jasmin Joseph, a 14-year-old from Kingsford School, Beckton, received around 700 votes and will be his Deputy while the remainder will be part of the Youth Council.

Pictured: Mayor Sir Robin Wales congratulates his young counterpart.