THE NEW youth mayor and deputy youth mayor of Merthyr Tydfil have been chosen as the council marks the 15th anniversary of the roles.
The inauguration of Merthyr Tydfil’s youth mayor Jacob Bridges, 22, and deputy youth mayor Cian Evans, 18, took place at Merthyr Tydfil Civic Centre in May.
Jacob and Cian will take part in civic events throughout the coming year as they pledge to represent and advocate the rights, entitlements, and voices of young people across the county borough.
This year is the 15th anniversary of the youth mayor initiative in Merthyr Tydfil which was set up to support young people’s development and for them to engage within the civic processes of the council.
Cllr Jamie Scriven, cabinet member for economy, regeneration, leisure and tourism was also the first deputy youth mayor of Merthyr Tydfil in 2010.
He said: “It fills me with great pride and pleasure to be part of Jacob and Cian’s inauguration and to see the initiative continue and reach its 15-year milestone.
“The involvement of children and young people in our democratic processes is vital to our wellbeing goals and future aspirations of the town.
“I would mark the youth mayor initiative as one of the single most important experiences of my life.
“I was 11 years old when I took on the post and it has led to the very path I am on now, giving me the skills and experience to operate at strategic and executive level and serve the county borough of Merthyr Tydfil that I love so much.
“I look forward to working with Jacob and Cian over their terms and give special thank you to the amazing staff over 15 years that have supported this initiative and the young people like myself, to become future leaders of our great community.”
Councillor Lisa Mytton, Merthyr Tydfil Council’s community champion commented: “As the children’s champion for the council, I am thrilled to congratulate Jacob on becoming our new youth mayor.
“This role is a fantastic opportunity for young people to voice their ideas, influence decisions, and shape the future of our community. Jacob’s dedication and enthusiasm is truly inspiring, and I am confident he will make a significant impact. Congratulations, Jacob.”
