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Leeds, 14th March 2026
Afrikindness is proud to share that its Youth Ambassadors, as part of the Youth Mentoring Programme, recently took part in the West Yorkshire Mayor’s Question Time held in March 2026 at Wakefield College, ensuring that young people’s voices were directly represented in regional civic discussions.
Ahead of the event, our young people submitted questions through the official West Yorkshire Mayor’s platform. Several of these questions were selected and answered during the live session by Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, who provided updates on her pledges and responded to public concerns. She was joined by Alison Lowe OBE, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, and Cllr Denise Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council.
During the 90-minute session hosted by Charlotte Leeming, the Mayor outlined the vision and progress behind her seven mayoral pledges in her second term. Key discussion areas included transport and connectivity, housing and regeneration, planning and finance, economic growth and skills, as well as climate, place, and environment.
For the young participants, this experience was a powerful step into civic engagement. It gave them direct insight into how decisions are made at regional level and demonstrated that their voices can influence real policy conversations.
Afrikindness emphasises that opportunities like this are essential for developing future leaders. Civic participation builds confidence, communication skills, critical thinking, and a stronger sense of belonging. It also ensures that young people—particularly from underrepresented communities—are included in shaping the systems and services that affect their lives.
We believe this engagement strengthens leadership pathways and empowers young people to see themselves as active contributors to positive change in society.
Watch the full recording of the session here:-
Media Contact:
Afrikindness
Email: ceo@afrikindness.org
