East Riding Elects First Young Mayor and New Youth Parliament Members
A new chapter in East Yorkshire's democratic life was written on Friday 6 March as the region elected its first-ever Young Mayor alongside new Members of the UK Youth Parliament, following a vote that saw a record number of young people have their say.
A total of 5,423 young people aged 11 to 18 cast their ballots across the East Riding, choosing from a record field of 47 candidates who stood on platforms ranging from tackling youth crime to improving access to mental health services and affordable transport.
Twelve-year-old Noureen Absinsanooj from South Hunsley School was selected by Youth Council members as East Riding's inaugural Young Mayor — a landmark appointment that gives a young person a formal role in representing the voices of their peers across the region.
New Members of Youth Parliament
The elections also returned two new Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) to represent the East Riding nationally. Darragh Walsche, 14, and Emily Middleton, 16, were elected as MYPs, with Mark Nicoline, 14, and Jacob Kidd, 15, chosen as deputies.
Darragh stood on a pledge to tackle youth crime and improve mental health provision for young people, while Emily campaigned on expanding youth provisions, providing free period products in schools and making public transport more affordable for teenagers.
"I'm absolutely buzzing," said Darragh after the results were announced. "There are so many young people in the East Riding who feel like nobody listens to them. I want to change that."
Emily added: "Young people have real ideas and real solutions. We just need people to take us seriously and give us a seat at the table. That's what the Youth Parliament is all about."
A record turnout
The 5,423 votes cast represented a significant increase on previous years, reflecting growing engagement with youth democracy across the East Riding. Organisers attributed the record turnout to an energetic campaign season and dedicated efforts by schools and youth groups to encourage participation.
Councillor Julie Abraham, East Riding of Yorkshire Council's portfolio holder for children and young people, congratulated all 47 candidates on their campaigns.
"Every single one of these young people should be immensely proud of themselves," she said. "Standing for election takes courage and commitment, and the quality of their campaigns was genuinely impressive. The future of the East Riding is in very good hands."
What the Young Mayor will do
As Young Mayor, Noureen Absinsanooj will take on a ceremonial and ambassadorial role, representing young people at council events, community functions and public engagements throughout the year. She will also work alongside the elected MYPs to ensure that the priorities identified by young voters are raised at both local and national level.
"I want to make sure every young person in the East Riding feels like they matter," Noureen said. "It doesn't matter how old you are or where you're from — your voice counts."
The Youth Council will meet regularly throughout 2026 to develop campaigns on the issues that matter most to young people in the region. Their work will feed into national debates through the UK Youth Parliament, giving East Yorkshire's young people a platform that extends well beyond the Humber.
For a region that prides itself on community spirit and straight talking, the election of its first Young Mayor feels like a natural step. And if the passion and commitment shown by this year's candidates is anything to go by, the future looks bright indeed.