Bradford's new Lord Mayor to celebrate the city which welcomed him
The Labour politician, who had been deputy mayor behind Bev Mullaney for the past year, was first voted onto the council in 2006 and works as a social worker as well as representing voters in Bradford Moor.Nominating Shafiq for the role, Bradford Council leader Susan Hinchcliffe said his was "a story a lot of our residents recognise"."He came to a strange environment, he didn't know many people, but he managed to apply himself really well," she said."He went on to become a social worker, working with some of the most vulnerable children."It is a positive story about Bradford and immigration to Bradford, that you came here, worked hard and are now helping vulnerable children."
'Deep humility'
The new Lord Mayor was also praised by other party leaders, with Conservative colleague Rebecca Poulsen saying he had proved a "very able deputy mayor" and councillor Taj Salam (Independents) said: "You're a brilliant councillor for your ward."Councillor Fozia Shaheen, who represents the Toller ward for Labour, was elected as deputy mayor for the coming year.After donning the mayoral robes, Shafiq added: "It is with deep humility and emotion that I stand here as your Lord Mayor. This honour means more to me than I can ever express."My story is a reflection of so many families who came to this country with hope, hard work and faith in their hearts."I wish my mum and dad were here – they sacrificed so much so I could have a better life."He named his two charities for the year as Bradford District and Craven Mind and the Umeed Welfare Trust.
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