New Young Mayor of Hull has been selected

Amelia Franczak, aged 12, from St Mary’s College, has now been selected as the new Young Mayor of Hull. Amelia was selected from 35 young people who applied for the role.

Amelia was chosen following her presentation on nationalism and racism, and felt she would be able to connect to anyone young and old. The role of Young Mayor will last for 12 months.

Amelia said: ‘I am extremely excited to be selected as Hull’s Young Mayor and I am looking forward to working with the Hull Youth Parliament.’

Amelia will take over from Gabriela Surdyk who undertook the role for two years due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The full selection process, from promotion campaign to selection, was led and evaluated by young people.

A total of 35 young people, aged 11 to 17, applied after a promotion campaign targeting youth groups, schools, colleges in Hull. 13 young people were selected to be interviewed by a panel of young people, which covered topics from mental health to community connectivity, body image to racism.

Councillor Shane McMurray, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services said: “Huge congratulations to Amelia.

“It’s important that more young people are involved and engaged in local politics and decision making. I am always impressed how well young people can advocate for each other and the things they care about, as well as changes they’d like to see.

“It’s vital that we take into account young people’s perspectives when we’re providing and shaping services for them. I wish Amelia a productive and enjoyable year.”

The Council’s Voice and Influence team will work with the Young Mayor, along with other young people, organisations, schools and the Lord Mayor of Hull for the benefit of young people in Hull.