Young voices lead the way as Lewisham announces new Young Mayor and Deputy
As part of the longest‑running Young Mayor Programme in the country, the newly elected Young Mayor, Tyrese Gayle, 14, from Conisborough College and Deputy Mayor, Izzy McDonald, 15, from Sydenham School, were revealed at the official announcement event on Thursday 5 February. This year’s election saw an impressive 10,634, votes cast across schools, sixth forms and colleges in the borough.
This year, 42 candidates stood for election, continuing Lewisham Council’s long-running commitment to involving young people in local democracy.
Due to the high number of quality candidates this year, the Council will be introducing a Top 10 Cabinet, recognising a wider group of young people who will be invited to take part in shaping youth engagement across the borough.
In addition, 2026 marks the launch of new Area Youth Forums. These forums will provide opportunities for young people to help shape local decisions and participate in community projects. A callout encouraging young people to join these forums is set to happen later this year.
The newly elected Young Mayor of Lewisham, Tyrese Gayle, said:
“I would like to say a special thank you to everyone who voted for me and well done to all the candidates. I look forward to working with Councillors and all the young people in Lewisham. I am looking forward to helping young people and the wider community through my projects”
Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres, said:
“Congratulations to Tyrese on being elected Young Mayor and to Izzy our new Deputy Young Mayor. All the candidates should be proud of the ideas and enthusiasm they brought to this year’s election.
This year has encouraged even more young people to get involved in local democracy and understand how they can contribute to positive change in the borough.
I would also like to thank our outgoing Young Mayor, Shane Grant, and Deputy Young Mayor, Jimaine Lee, for their excellent work over the past year, including their projects with Riverside Youth Club and initiatives to tackle knife crime.”
The Young Mayor and Deputy Young Mayor will work alongside the council and local organisations to deliver projects, represent young people’s views, and influence decision-making over the coming year: