A new generation of young people have been elected, to serve as the new Youth Commissioners for the West Midlands.
Sixteen young people have earned the votes of their peers and will now sit with Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, assisting and advising him on issues important to them.
The election took place over a two-week period, with more than 1,000 votes cast in an online ballot, by under 18s across the region.
The Youth Commissioners will advise the Police and Crime Commissioner on law and order issues, affecting children and teenagers. They will also be asked to represent the views and stand up for the rights of young people within the police force area.
Each borough in the West Midlands will be represented by two Youth Commissioners, who will serve a two year term and the PCC is asking young people to reach out to their Youth Commissioner, so that their voices are heard.
As well as speaking directly to the PCC, the volunteer Youth Commissioners will liaise with police officers, decision makers and youth organisations about crime, justice and victim services.
They will also be asked to challenge the force, when it fails to live up to expectations.
One of the two new Sandwell Youth Commissioners, Ayyatulahi Adigun, said: “I just wanted to say thank you so much for everyone who supported me and I cannot wait to make an impact on society, together with all the other Youth Commissioners.
“To every young person in Sandwell, I am here to represent you and my ultimate aim is to make you all feel heard, safe and welcome.”
The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster, said: “I am delighted to have 16 newly elected Youth Commissioners in post. These individuals will play a very important part in keeping young people safe.
“It is their responsibility to brief me on the concerns and views of young people. I rely on my Youth Commissioners, to tell me when problems emerge, so I can ensure something is done.
“They are my eyes and ears on the ground and play a crucial role in keeping everyone safe.
“I am very much looking forward to working with my new Youth Commissioners, starting right away.”
It was a tight contest across all areas. However, the largest vote shares were recorded by Maysa Khandoker from Solihull, who from a field of eight candidates secured 31.6% of all Solihull votes, and Ayyatulahi Adigun from Sandwell, who from a field of four candidates secured 46.1% of all Sandwell votes.
Youth Commissioners will be asked to consult young people on the PCC’s Police and Crime Plan, liaise with other teenagers and children and build relationships with the police.
Anyone who wishes to contact their Youth Commissioner should email yazmin.francis@westmidlands.police.uk
Youth Commissioners 2023
Birmingham
Ehsan Ibrahim
Ayaan Dad
Srilakshmi Sen
‘Mustapha’/Muhammed Khuhro
Coventry
Mimzy Smith
Audrey David
Dudley
Malia Dayus
Layba Khan
Sandwell
Ayyatulahi Adigun
Maria Hussain
Solihull
Maysa Khandoker
Leen Abdulla
Walsall
Brooke Sears
Liliana Davis
Wolverhampton
Harleen Nahal
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