A King’s student who was appointed deputy mayor of his town hopes that his example will inspire others to take an interest in local politics and make a difference in their communities.
Tushar Kumar was elected to Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council in 2023 with 832 votes, making him one of the youngest councillors ever to hold a seat at 20 years old.
He was elected in 2023 after edging out his nearest competitor after a recount by just a single vote.
As a town councillor, Tushar attends regular council meetings, helps residents with constituency enquiries, and votes on local planning issues.
Two years into his first term at 22 years old as a Labour councillor, Tushar was appointed as deputy mayor. His responsibilities include assisting the town mayor and representing the authority at official occasions.
via King’s College London
As deputy mayor, his duties will also include chairing meetings, attending formal occasions at both district and county level, and acting as the council’s figurehead in case of the mayor’s absence.
Tushar, who is currently set to graduate from King’s this summer with a BSc in politics, is now believed to be the town’s youngest ever deputy mayor.
He previously credited the Civic Leadership Academy at King’s for improving his public speaking skills, and said that his experience with the University Officers’ Training Corps was also incredibly valuable in his leadership development.
Tushar said: “My time at King’s has played a significant role in shaping my values and commitment to public service and I hope my story might inspire other students to see leadership and local impact as paths worth pursuing.”
Featured image via King’s College London
