"I am absolutely honoured and delighted to be representing our beautiful city, the city of Chester. I am humbled and proud to be the first British Asian ( Bangladeshi ) person from the Islamic faith to take office as Lord Mayor of the city of Chester. My theme for the year is pride in place which will provide great opportunity for groups and communities to highlight and showcase all the things they are proud of in their wards and in their communities.

Born in the Royal Oldham hospital in the early 80’s, I am one of seven children raised by my mother and father surrounded by the love of my grand- parents, aunties and uncle.

Following GCSE’s and A – Levels I went onto study BA Honours in Social science (majoring in Politics) at the Manchester Metropolitan University. I studied further a few years later after starting my family and achieved my MA in Social work at the University of Chester.

In the beginning of my career, I worked as a Youth Worker. Since, I have worked in Voluntary organisations mainly focused on helping women. I have also worked in the private and corporate sector. Furthermore, I have held positions in local authorities working in schools and Social Work teams particularly, adult mental health and vulnerable adults in the community.

I have two children, a boy and a girl and together we enjoy travelling and exploring the outdoors. We have travelled to many beautiful places locally, and across the UK. We have also travelled to countries outside of the UK enjoying other cultures, food and heritage.

For my Mayoral year my chosen charities are local to Chester, they are; Chester Women’s aid, and the Heath Youth Club. I will be pushing myself to limits to raise funds for these charities and I will also be holding events, and balls (an opportunity for supporters to dress up and have some fun).

My aim is to bring community and people together and I hope that my experiences, values, and community connections can help to achieve this."

Councillor Sherin Akhtar - Lord Mayor of Chester