Twelve young people are shadowing key figures, including the Leader of the Council, Cllr Peray Ahmet, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools, and Families Cllr Zena Brabazon, the Mayor of Haringey, senior directors, and council officers. Through this experience, they’ll gain first hand insight into the roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes at the council.
With interests ranging from Government and Politics to Media, Health, Culture, Community and Social Work, these young individuals are exploring knowledge, skills, and opportunities in these areas.
Youth Takeover Week is an annual national initiative delivered locally by Haringey’s Youth Service with the aim of providing young residents the opportunity to understand have a voice.
Selina Bendjoudi, who spoke about SEND funding and its impact on her during a special Full Council meeting last month, spent an afternoon with Cllr Zena Brabazon and Cllr Peray Ahmet. She gained valuable insights into Haringey’s children’s services and explored how the education system influences local politics.
Commenting on her experience, Selina, said:
I thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience and the opportunity to connect with Leader and Cabinet Member as I shared my challenges and triumphs of being a young person with SEND.
The experience provided me with invaluable insights into SEND budgeting and funding across various schools in Haringey.
I am so happy I joined the Elevated Youth Panel, as it has given me a clear vision of what can be achieved and what is yet to come. Being a voice of change for young people out there is truly empowering, and I’m excited about the positive impact we can accomplish together.
Meanwhile, youth panel member Zacharia Opere joined the council's culture team for a day to gain insight into the strong link between community and culture and how they work together to enrich local life.
During the visit, the team showcased the diverse organisations, venues, groups, and artists they collaborate with, as well as the range of events they deliver. Zacharia was shown photos and videos of past events, which provided a vivid understanding of the council’s cultural initiatives.
Zacharia also shared his own perspective on engaging with arts and culture in the borough, offering valuable insight into how young people experience and connect with Haringey's vibrant cultural scene.
Zacharia added:
It was brilliant & powerful just to be there and share my story and understanding of culture and community of Haringey. It was really informative. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and look forward to working with the team again.
Zakariya Ahmed also joined one of the many members for the chance to experience working for the council. As an aspiring chemist with a passion for science and leadership, he joined discussions with the Culture, Strategy & Engagement teams, shared his insights, and learned about their work. Zachriye’s visit highlighted the importance of youth voices in driving strategic initiatives and fostering positive change.
Zachriye, said:
I’m really excited to gain insights into the professional world, make career-enhancing connections, and expand my understanding of different workplaces. I love engaging in conversations with adults and learning from their experiences—it’s such a great way to grow.
Launched in 2007 by the Office of the Children’s Commissioner, Youth Takeover Week has engaged over 40,000 young people nationwide. At Haringey Council, the event celebrates youth voices, champions diverse perspectives, and fosters learning opportunities and networking.
The initiative not only offers invaluable experience to youngsters but also provides council leaders with fresh insights and feedback, strengthening ties with the next generation of borough residents.
Youth Takeover will continue into next week where members will meet various other council officers and stakeholders gain valuable insights.
