The City of Cape Town’s Junior City Council (JCC) elected its Executive Committee members this past weekend, which include a learner of False Bay High School as the Junior Speaker.
“Under the auspices of City Speaker Alderman Felicity Purchase’s Office, and with the incredible work being undertaken by Cllr. Donovan Nelson – the appointed JCC Custodian – the City is committed to fostering civic responsibility among Grade 10 and 11 learners in all 116 wards and 21 subcouncils,” the City said in a statement.
The JCC also assists and develops the skills, self-image and leadership abilities of young individuals, enabling them to serve proudly as City ambassadors.
The previous Executive Committee’s term came to an end in 2022, after making significant contributions to the JCC’s activities and the communities they represent, and were acknowledged with gratitude for their dedication and service.
The newly elected JCC Executive Committee members for the 2023 term are:
1. Junior Executive Mayor: Dirk Hagen, Grade 11, DF Malan High School
2. Junior Deputy Mayor: Fayhaa Khalil, Grade 10, Abbots College, Rondebosch
3. Junior Speaker: Teagan Bender, Grade 11, False Bay High School
4. Junior Chief Whip: Hlumelo Jeke, Grade 11, Athlone High School
“These young leaders were chosen through a democratic electoral process, supported by campaigning and nominations by the current JCC members,” the City stated.
The election took place on Saturday 22 July at the City of Cape Town’s Municipal Council Chambers, with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) serving as the presiding officer.
The JCC’s new Executive Committee members are poised to embrace their roles and responsibilities with enthusiasm. They will work tirelessly to strengthen the junior councillors’ interaction and their collaboration with external partners and organisations committed to creating a City of Hope.
JCC Custodian Cllr Nelson expressed his satisfaction with the electoral outcome and conveyed his excitement to work alongside the new Executive Committee on upcoming projects.
“Their collective efforts will ensure that the Junior Councillors remain actively involved in shaping our City,” the statement concluded.
