Tushar Kumar, a 23-year-old Labour councillor and former Political Science student at King’s College London, has become the youngest Indian-origin mayor in the United Kingdom after taking office as Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood. He was formally installed at a mayor-making ceremony in Fairway Hall.
Kumar joined Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council in 2023 and previously served as Deputy Mayor. In remarks after the ceremony he said he was humbled by the trust placed in him and thanked residents, community organisations, fellow councillors and his family for their support. He paid tribute to outgoing mayor Dan Ozarow for his service and named Councillor Linda Smith as his deputy.
As mayor, Kumar said he will prioritise being visible and active in the community, supporting local organisations and charities, and encouraging more young people to take part in public life and local government. He selected WD6 Food Support, a voluntary network that helps residents in need, as his official charity for the mayoral year.
Kumar credits his time at King’s College — including the Civic Leadership Academy — with building his confidence and public speaking skills. He also gained leadership experience with the University Officers’ Training Corps while a student. His professional background includes roles as a Policy Advisor at the Department for Work and Pensions and as a Research Analyst for a national LGBTQ+ charity. He has supported literacy work with the Bookmark Reading Charity and has been active in volunteering and organising inclusive community events.
Local council mayors in the UK perform a largely ceremonial role, wearing the traditional chains of office and acting as a high representative of their area. The mayor’s engagements link different community groups and organisations to the council: they listen to local concerns, share community views with council members, and represent the council at public events.
Kumar said he hopes his election will inspire other students and young people to consider leadership and local impact as worthwhile routes into public service.
