Deng Yan San scoops polls for Young mayor of Tower Hamlets

This is the moment exited teenager Deng Yan San learned she had won the election for Young Mayor of Tower Hamlets.

She was over the moon when her name was declared at the election count at the Town Hall on Thursday.

It follows months of campaigning to win the hearts and minds of the young electorate in London’s East End, when she polled 2,663 votes.

She holds the post for two years and represents youngsters in London’s East End in the national Youth Parliament.

There were scenes of triumph and cheering as the results were announced by the borough’s official Election Returning Officer John Williams before Deng addressed her supporters.

“I am incredibly grateful to all of you who voted for me and put your trust in me,” she said.

“Our team will hit the ground running, and we’ll help this borough to shine. Empowering young people in local politics and bridging the gap between young people and the young mayor still remains important—I will work to make sure I fulfil all the promises I have made.”

She is supported by two deputies, Shofiqul Alom and Monsur Ali.

A total of 10,775 votes were cast for 14 candidates in the polling held in schools and youth centres with a 71 per cent turnout.