Luton’s new Mayor and Deputy Mayor were officially appointed in a ceremony held in the council chamber, on Tuesday 14th June.
Councillor Sameera Saleem, who serves Leagrave Ward, has been a councillor since 2015. She was formally sworn in to the post following the initial announcement last month.
She born and bred in Luton, attended schools in the town and currently works for Bretherton Law.
Sameera said: one of her greatest influences is her father who nurtured an interest in politics from a young age.
Sameera said: “My father was a councillor and a mayor in the town and I am proud to be given this opportunity to follow in his footsteps. My desire is to help others and help bring out the best in the people of this great town.
“At a time when we have been reflecting upon the duty and service of Her Majesty the Queen, it is humbling for me to be given this chance to do something to represent the people of Luton and serve in this way.”
Councillor Saleem has become one of Luton’s youngest ever mayors. She has served on a variety of committees and bodies and hopes to use her term of office as an opportunity to meet people from Luton’s wide range of backgrounds and represent the town through various civic duties.
Councillor Asif Masood is the new Deputy Mayor.
Asif has been a councillor for Icknield Ward since 2019 and served on various committees. He is particularly interested in social care and believes passionately in the importance of high quality services for all residents who require it.