In her role, Kaitlyn will continue to promote the youth voice of Barnsley and campaign on key issues impacting on young people 

Students and staff at Barnsley Academy are celebrating after Year 9 student Kaitlyn Walker was sworn in as Young Mayor of Barnsley for 2023-24.

In her role, Kaitlyn will work closely with her peers in the Barnsley Youth Council to represent young people across the local area and campaign on issues that matter to them the most. She brings with her a wealth of enthusiasm and experience having previously held positions as Youth Councillor and Member of the Youth Parliament. Looking to the future, Kaitlyn has ambitions to read Law at the University of Cambridge.

Speaking of her appointment, Kaitlyn said:

“I have always been interested in politics and determined to have a positive impact on the people and places around me so I am absolutely elated to have been elected as Young Mayor! I was inspired to run for the position as it’s a way for me to help the young people of Barnsley and contribute to the future of my local area. I’m really looking forward to immersing myself in this role over the year ahead and doing what I can to effectively represent and support my peers.”

Naveed Khan, Principal at Barnsley Academy, said:

“We are all so pleased with Kaitlyn’s prestigious appointment as Young Mayor of Barnsley. Alongside being an exceptional student, Kaitlyn is absolutely committed to making a positive difference in our local community. She continues to inspire and impress us all at the academy with her enduring dedication, both to her academic learning and to her wider extracurricular activities. I have no doubt that she will make a truly excellent Young Mayor.”