London: A 23-year-old Labour councillor from eastern England has made history after becoming the youngest Indian-origin Mayor in the United Kingdom.

Tushar Kumar formally assumed office as the Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood during a ceremony held last week.

A former Political Science student at King's College London, Kumar joined the Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council in 2023 and had previously served as Deputy Mayor.

Youngest Indian-origin Mayor in the UK

Following the ceremony, Kumar described the appointment as a deeply significant moment in his public life.

“An incredible honour to officially become the Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood last night and, at 23 years old, the youngest ever Indian-origin Mayor in the history of the United Kingdom,” he said in a statement.

He also thanked residents, fellow councillors, community groups, friends and family members for their support throughout his political journey.

“I am truly humbled by the trust placed in me and incredibly grateful for all the support, kindness and encouragement I have received throughout this journey. Thank you to everyone who attended the Mayor Making Ceremony at Fairway Hall and to all those who have supported me over the years, from residents, community organisations and fellow councillors, to my family and friends who have always believed in me,” Kumar said.

Focus on community engagement and youth participation

Kumar expressed appreciation to outgoing mayor Dan Ozarow for his guidance during his tenure as Deputy Mayor. He also welcomed Linda Smith as the new Deputy Mayor.

“I look forward to working closely together over the coming year serving our community. As Mayor, I want to focus on being present within the community, supporting local organisations and charities, and inspiring more young people to get involved in public service and community life. It is the privilege of a lifetime to serve the town I love,” he said.

Kumar, who was elected as one of the youngest councillors while still studying in London, said he strongly believes meaningful political change begins at the grassroots level.

“Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council gave me a platform to listen, represent and act, making a difference where it truly matters, close to home,” he noted.

King’s College London shaped public service journey

Kumar credited the Civic Leadership Academy at King’s College London for helping him develop confidence and strengthen his public speaking abilities.

He also gained leadership experience through the University Officers’ Training Corps during his time studying politics at the London university.

“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,” he said.

Kumar said he had worked across policy, education and research sectors, including serving as a Policy Adviser at the Department for Work and Pensions and as a Research Analyst for a national LGBTQ+ charity.

“I am passionate about youth empowerment and education, which led me to support literacy initiatives through Bookmark Reading Charity. I enjoy volunteering, organising inclusive community events, and championing access to public services,” he added.

Mayor selects local food charity for term

Kumar has chosen WD6 Food Support as the focus charity during his mayoral tenure. The voluntary organisation supports residents in need within the local community.

The office of a local council Mayor in the United Kingdom is traditionally ceremonial and civic in nature, with the Mayor serving as a prominent representative of the area while wearing the official “chains of office”.

Mayoral duties typically involve attending public engagements, connecting with local organisations and community groups, representing residents’ concerns before the council, and communicating council initiatives to the wider community.

Agency inputs