Radical approach to role of Lord Mayor

Probably an old person, of white descent, a massive gold chain, boring and out of touch.

I moved to Sheffield for university and in all my 40 years of living in this wonderful city I have never cared, bothered or been excited about a Lord Mayor as they were all the same, did the same and served the same type of people.

I was recently at a community charity event and met a gentleman named Magid Magid, (great name, I know), he was wearing a cap backwards, a pair of Dr Marten boots, the brightest smile and just lit the room up when he walked in.

Me and my colleague couldn’t help but enquire who this person who looked brilliantly out of place was, to be told by someone that he was the incoming Lord Mayor which made me and my colleague laugh in disbelief.

After meeting him and hearing his story and how passionate and humble he was, I can’t wait to call him my Lord Mayor.

Magid will not only be the first Green Lord Mayor we’ve had, he will also be the youngest Lord Mayor we have ever had.

The fact that he is a young black Muslim immigrant really challenges stereotypes and breaks perceptions. With how polarising and divided we currently are, I genuinely believe and hope Magid will not only be a breath of fresh air but a beacon of hope that unites us all. It is something everyone one of us from Sheffield should champion and be proud of!

I really hope Magid does bring a radical approach to the role and as well as celebrating all that is great about our wonderful city, really engages with all the hard-to- reach communities.

I for one can’t wait to see how his year unfolds. The best of luck Magid!

Lisa M

Sheffield, S5