A Councillor who came to the UK aged 12 unable to speak English has spoken of his pride at being named Lord Mayor of the district.
Councillor Mohammed Shafiq (Lab, Bradford Moor) was elected as Lord Mayor at Bradford Council’s annual meeting on Tuesday morning.
He will take over from Councillor Beverley Mullaney, who finished her 12-month stint as Mayor at the same meeting.
Cllr Shafiq, who has been Deputy Mayor for the past year, was first voted onto the Council in 2006, and works as a social worker.
Nominating him for the role, Bradford Council Leader Susan Hinchcliffe referred to Cllr Shafiq’s life as an immigrant in Bradford, who arrived in the country aged just 12.
She said: “It is a story a lot of our residents recognise. He came to a strange environment, he didn’t know many people, but he managed to apply himself really well.”
She told the meeting that he excelled in cricket, and once bowled five wickets in an over.
Cllr Hinchcliffe added: “He went on to become a social worker, working with some of the most vulnerable children.
“That is to your credit. It is a positive story about Bradford and immigration to Bradford, that you came here, worked hard and are now helping vulnerable children.”
Cllr Shafiq was also praised by other party leaders, with Cllr Rebecca Poulsen (Cons) saying he had proved a “very able deputy Mayor” and Cllr Taj Salam (Independents) said: “You’re a brilliant Councillor for your ward.”
Councillor Fozia Shaheen (Lab, Toller) was elected as Deputy Mayor for the coming year.
After donning the mayoral robes, Cllr Shafiq said: “It is with deep humility and emotion that I stand here as your Lord Mayor. This honour means more to me than I can ever express.
“My story is a reflection of so many families who came to this country with hope, hard work and faith in their hearts.
“I was a 12-year-old boy not knowing a word of English, wide eyed and unsure, yet Bradford welcomed me with open arms and made me feel at home.
“It became my city and four decades later I stand here not just as a resident but as Lord Mayor.
“I wish my mum and dad were here – they sacrificed so much so I could have a better life.”
Cllr Shafiq named his two charities for the year as Bradford District and Craven Mind and the Umeed Welfare Trust.
By: Chris Young, LDRS
