Satya Panigrahi is Lambeth’s first-ever Youth Mayor following a convincing victory in elections held last week.  Satya, a Year-10 student at Dunraven School in Streatham, lists his priorities as tackling crime by promoting sports, healthy activities and better youth facilities.   

Satya’s landslide victory was announced by Labour councillor Florence Nosegbe who is in charge of youth services at the town hall.  Florence congratulated Satya on his big win and urged him to use his new role to make a difference for young people across Lambeth.  Charlotte Ryan came second and was elected Deputy Youth Mayor. 

Voting took place online and at schools and youth clubs across Lambeth.  Polling stations were set up in the schools with the same kind of voting booths and ballot boxes used in adult elections.  Turnout far exceeded expectations with over 3500 young people voting for their favourite candidate.  Teachers at the announcement ceremony praised the election for giving young people the chance to experience how to vote and take part in civic life. 

Labour’s Steve Reed is Leader of Lambeth Council.  Steve congratuled Satya on his victory and thanked all the young people who took part as voters or candidates.  He said: “the election for Lambeth’s first Youth Mayor has been a huge success.  Young people across the Borough have voted for Satya to represent them, and they have said they want to see action to tackle crime and improve youth services.  Now it’s up to us to show them we’re listening and we care about what young people have to say.” 

The only sour note was sounded by Lib Dem councillors who attacked the youth mayor as an ‘absurd gimmick’ showing that their party is completely out of touch with young people. 

Satya Panigrahi is Lambeth's first-ever Youth Mayor