Safiya Saeed becomes Sheffield’s first black Muslim woman Lord Mayor
Several of her relatives travelled from Somaliland to witness the occasion, reflecting the personal and communal significance of the event.
Safiya Saeed has been named the 128th Lord Mayor of Sheffield, becoming the first black Muslim woman to hold the position in the city’s history. Her appointment was confirmed during the Annual General Meeting of Sheffield City Council, held at the Sheffield Town Hall.
Safiya, who has served as the Labour councillor for Burngreave since 2021, officially stepped into the role in front of council members, community representatives, and her family.
More To Read
Several of her relatives travelled from Somaliland to witness the occasion, reflecting the personal and communal significance of the event.
In her inaugural speech, Safiya expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve in a position with such a long tradition. She reflected on her journey to the city, stating that she moved to Sheffield in 1985 and had always felt a strong connection to its people and communities.
“I am honoured to be the first Black woman wearing a hijab to take this role,” she said. “I came to Sheffield in 1985, and this city has truly become my home, a place where I have always felt I belong.”
Safiya’s background includes extensive work in community development. She is the founder of Reach Up Youth, a grassroots organisation focused on empowering young people, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds.
The group provides leadership training, supports career development, offers mental health resources, and promotes inclusion.
In her address, Safiya emphasised that becoming Lord Mayor allows her to expand her efforts to support communities across Sheffield.
She described the role as an opportunity to highlight voices that often go unheard and to create spaces where everyone feels welcome and represented.
Safiya stated that she intends to use her term to promote community connection and cooperation between different sectors in the city. She outlined a vision of Sheffield as a place where local businesses, charitable organisations, and residents work together to share ideas, build networks, and support one another.
“I hope to turn Sheffield into a thriving hub where investors, entrepreneurs, charities, and residents can build partnerships and support each other, looking to gather Sheffield’s stories, amplify its voices, and proudly represent the spirit of our city,” she said.
Her previous roles in the council include serving as Deputy Lord Mayor and Chair of the North East Local Area Committee.
These positions have given her experience in local governance and a platform to address a range of community issues.
Although the position of Lord Mayor does not include executive authority, it plays a significant role in representing the city during official events and promoting civic engagement.
The office is a symbol of civic pride and is tasked with encouraging community involvement in local affairs.
Safiya concluded her remarks by reaffirming her commitment to making civic life in Sheffield more inclusive. She said she hopes her appointment sends a message that leadership in the city is open to people of all backgrounds.
Top Stories Today
