'Never in a million years': Leeds' first Muslim deputy council leader Salma Arif shares joy at appointment
‘You should never limit where you can go’
The first Muslim deputy leader for Leeds City Council has shared her joy at her new appointment and said she hopes she can inspire others to follow in her footsteps.
Coun Salma Arif was named deputy leader at this week’s executive board meeting when new roles were confirmed following the local elections.
The trailblazing councillor has opened up about how growing up in Harehills has shaped her outlook and how she is proud to represent the community she grew up in.
Coun Arif said in a post on social media: “Never in a million years would young me from Harehills have believed this was possible.
“I hope young people across our communities can look at this and know that where you come from should never limit where you can go. “
After attending Allerton Grange High School, Coun Arif then studied media at Thomas Danby College before taking on a law degree at the University of Huddersfield.
She then entered the world of politics when former Leeds East MP George Mudie announced he was stepping down prior to the 2015 general election.
And since then she has made her mark on the political landscape in Leeds.
She added: “My forefathers, who first arrived in Leeds in the 1930s, would never have deemed it possible that one of their own would one day hold this position.
“Leeds gave my family, and countless immigrants, a place to call home. Generations later, it is now my turn to give back to the city that has given us so much.
“Growing up in Harehills shaped who I am. It taught me resilience, compassion and the importance of fighting for people whose voices are too often overlooked.
“To now be in a position to help lead the city I love is something I will never take for granted. This moment is bigger than me. It belongs to every resident, supporter, friend and family member who believed in me, encouraged me and stood beside me along the way.
“Thank you to my Leader James Lewis, and to my colleagues in the Labour Group who have placed their trust in me. I will continue to work hard every single day for the city that raised me. “