Mayor of Luton

Councillor Mohammed Yaqub Hanif - Mayor

I am a born and bred Lutonian, having lived in Luton my entire life. I am a proud father of four, all whom were born here in Luton too.
I studied at Challney Boys High School and Luton Sixth Form College, before going onto university.

My greatest influence growing up was my parents, who instilled in me the values and principles which have guided me throughout my life.
Also, my wife has been my greatest supporter and someone who I can rely on for help and support with life's challenges.

I have been teaching for over 18 years and am currently a teacher and the Head of the Business Studies Department at Cardinal Newman Catholic High School.
I am a keen sportsman having played league hockey for over 26 years straight and, currently play in goal for Vauxhall Hockey Club.

I am also beginning my second term as a councillor, having represented Round Green and now the new Central Ward.
I have served on the Airport Board and will continue my role on the Airport Board on behalf of the council. The Airport is a passion of mine, and I am aim to champion the role it plays in delivering economic growth for our great town.

I take great pleasure in meeting people from all walks of life and trying to understand the great contributions their cultures make to the life of Lutonians.
This stems from one of my passions which is travelling, as I have visited every continent across the world, meeting some fascinating people along the way.

The position of Mayor, which I have been entrusted with, is both a tremendous honour and a great privilege.
It will allow me to serve the great people of Luton, our home and our town and I look forward to championing charitable causes and helping those that need our help the most in society.

Councillor Zanib Raja - Deputy Mayor

I am a born and bred proud Lutonian with my roots firmly embedded in my home town, I decided to stand for council to make a real tangible difference to everyday lives and do whatever is possible to prevent the burden of austerity falling harshly on those already struggling.

I attended Maidenhall Infants and Juniors School, Challney High School for Girls and graduated from Barnfield College. I worked at London Luton Airport in a managerial role until being made redundant during the pandemic.

I chose to put myself forward because I feel totally passionate about my town, I have always wanted an opportunity to give back to my community, I was elected by the people of Biscot Ward, to represent them as there councillor and I will treasure this as with the huge majority I gained, I will not take this responsibility lightly nor for granted.

It is an honour and a privilege to be selected to serve the council and the county borough as the deputy mayor for the forth coming year 2023-2024. My fellow councillors have given me a great privilege and responsibility to represent my town, my community!