New Lord Mayor of Manchester appointed in city first

In a historic moment that marked a new era for Manchester, Councillor Yasmine Dar was officially sworn in as the city’s first female Asian Lord Mayor.

The appointment took place during a momentous full council meeting, held on May 17th.

While Councillor Dar was born in South Yorkshire, her heart has always belonged to Manchester.

Having lived in the city for over five decades, alongside her five brothers and sister, she embodies the true spirit of a proud Mancunian.

Yasmine’s early education at Manley Park Primary School and Whalley Range High School laid the foundation for her journey of empowerment and community engagement.

Following her secondary education, Yasmine enrolled at Abraham Moss College, where she delved into the realms of art and design, hairdressing, and beauty therapy.

However, driven by her desire to make a difference, she made a pivotal decision to pursue a Diploma and Certificate in Welfare Studies.

This path led her to work for a Welfare Rights Organization, where she dedicated herself to supporting and advising individuals in need.

Fueled by her life experiences and inspired by her role as a mother to two daughters, Yasmine sought further knowledge and skills in the field of social work.

She completed her BA Hons in Social Work from Salford University, empowering herself to tackle the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals within the community.

In 2009, Yasmine’s dedication to empowering young people led her and her brother, Majid, to establish ‘Community on Solid Ground,’ a remarkable charity based in Whalley Range.

Over the years, this award-winning service has transformed the lives of more than 400 young individuals, providing them with invaluable support and engaging activities.

Yasmine’s extensive professional experience includes aiding marginalised communities dealing with mental health issues, and domestic abuse, and navigating the criminal justice system.

Yasmine attributes her involvement in local politics to the unwavering support of her loving parents, particularly her late father, M. Akram Dar, who recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue a career in public service.

Her political journey commenced with her election as the councillor for Moston in 2014.

Shortly after, she ascended to the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee, solidifying her place as a leader in the party’s highest governing body.

Yasmine’s life journey has shaped her belief in the transformative power of self-empowerment, a core principle that she says will define her tenure as Lord Mayor.

Her leadership will focus on inspiring individuals from all walks of life to discover their own strengths and make positive contributions to society.

Throughout her term, Yasmine will be supported by her daughter, Amina, who will serve as Lady Mayoress, and her brother, Majid Dar, who will act as Consort.

Together, they form a close-knit team dedicated to uplifting Manchester and fostering unity within its diverse communities.

Expressing her heartfelt gratitude, Lord Mayor Yasmine Dar shared her emotions on assuming the prestigious role, saying: “I am truly humbled and honoured to be the Lord Mayor of the City of Manchester.

“I cannot wait to represent the people of this great city, a place I hold dear to my heart.

“Since 2014, as a Councillor in Moston, I have been passionate about helping and connecting with communities across the city, and I hope that my role as Lord Mayor will enable me to make an even greater impact.”