The City’s Junior Council has ushered in a new generation of youth leadership with the election of its Junior Executive Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Speaker and Chief Whip.
The appointments were announced on Saturday 16 May as part of the Junior City Council (JCC), a prestigious, non-political City initiative designed to shape the next generation of ethical leaders through hands-on exposure to local government.
It gives Grade 10 and 11 learners the chance to engage with civic issues, lead community projects, and share ideas that strengthen their communities.
Through the programme, members build integrity, accountability, and a strong commitment to public service.
In March this year the city welcomed 50 newly selected junior councillors chosen from a record-breaking 929 applications for the unique leadership programme.
People’s Post spoke to some of the newly elected executive to hear their plans, priorities and vision for their term in office.
Vision For Change
Pierce Beaulieu has been elected as Junior Excutive Mayor.
The grade 11 learner from the American International School of Cape Town, said he is excited and honoured to start this new chapter.
Highlighting a commitment to collaboration and change, Beaulieu shared his vision for improving opportunities for young people in the city during his term.
“My top priority is to bring impactful change in various ways. And to work with other junior councillors. I believe in an integrated approach to work on projects that will bring the change that our city is looking for.”
He believes attention should be focused on issues such as gender-based violence, pollution and development projects.
When asked how he plans to make youth voices more influential in local decision-making, he said he plans to engage directly with communities and visit schools to conduct surveys and amplify young people’s voices.
Raising Awareness
Taking the helm as Junior Deputy Mayor is Samantha September, a Grade 11 learner from Parow High School.
The teen said she cannot wait to take on the role, contribute to her community and make a meaningful impact during her term.
“I am excited, but I am aware it is a huge responsibility because I will be advising the junior mayor. But we are starting something big.”
Asked about key challenges facing young people today, September highlighted a lack of awareness and information among youth.
“There is a scarcity of knowledge among youth. So many of the youth are uninformed about things around them. Even this JCC programme not many of them know that it is about.”
September said they hope to address this gap in awareness and improve youth access to information during their term.
Sea Point High School learner Lunam Gusha has been elected Junior Speaker, while Lilah Barnes of Fairmont High School will serve as Junior Chief Whip.
For the past five years, Ward 65 councillor Donovan Nelson has spearheaded the programme, helping shape its curriculum and expand its reach.
This year, he is joined by newly appointed co-custodians Nicole Sukers, PR councillor for subcouncil 11, and Nicola Jowell, Ward 54 councillor.
ALSO READ: City of Cape Town welcomes 50 new junior city councillors
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