Young mayoral election sees record-breaking turnout

Lewisham has a new young mayor following a record-breaking election earlier this week.

Shane Grant, 14, was elected as Lewisham’s next Young Mayor at the borough-wide election on Wednesday, which saw the highest ever voter turnout in the programme’s 20-year history.

The student, who attends Trinity School, secured 2,291 votes, earning the opportunity to represent and advocate for young people across the borough.

He said: “Thank you to everyone who supported me and my campaign. I’m willing to make real change in Lewisham, so stick with me – you’ve made the right choice. 

“I look forward to being the best that I can be in this role.”  

Alongside Shane, St Matthew Academy pupil Jimaine Lee, 14, was elected as deputy young mayor, with 1,013 votes.

The election saw a record-breaking 62 per cent participation across Lewisham’s schools, sixth forms and colleges.

Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres, congratulated the two elected representatives.

She said: “I’m really looking forward to working with Shane and Jimaine – they’ve done so well to be the top two of 36 candidates. 

“I’d also like to say a big thank you to our outgoing Young Mayor, Bilvilyn Asamoah and Deputy Young Mayor Paul Frimpong, who have been fantastic ambassadors for the borough.”

The Young Mayor and Deputy Young Mayor will work alongside the council and organisations to deliver projects, represent young people’s views, and influence decision-making over the coming year.

Pictured top: From left, Lewisham Young Mayor Shane Grant, Deputy Young Mayor Jimaine Lee and Mayor Brenda Dacres (Picture: Lewisham council)