New Mayor for Wandsworth

Cllr Ambache takes over from Cllr Sana Jafri, a Tooting-born immigration lawyer and mum of two who was the borough’s first Pakistani Muslim mayor.

As Cllr Jeremy Ambache steps into his role as Mayor of Wandsworth, the borough extends heartfelt appreciation to outgoing Mayor Councillor Sana Jafri for her ground breaking and compassionate leadership. During her tenure, Cllr Jafri made history as Wandsworth's first Pakistani Muslim mayor, bringing a unique perspective shaped by her background as an immigration lawyer, human rights activist, and mother of two. Her mayoral year was marked by a deep commitment to inclusivity, community engagement, and social justice.

Cllr Jafri championed several local charities, including Home Start Wandsworth, Rackets Cubed, and Tooting Community Kitchen, focusing on family support, youth development, and combating food insecurity. She also revitalised the Wandsworth Civic Awards, introducing new categories to celebrate community champions, environmental heroes, and cultural contributors, thereby recognising the borough's diverse and dedicated residents. 

Cllr Ambache has a long and distinguished career in social care, having worked as a social worker, manager, and director for both children's and adult services across multiple local authorities. He has also provided expert advice to central government on health, social care, and tackling the abuse of vulnerable adults. 

Speaking on the announcement, he said: “I am honoured to once again serve Wandsworth as Mayor for the coming year. Along with the Deputy Mayor, we will work closely with colleagues and community groups to bring Wandsworth together, especially in this special year as London Borough of Culture.” 

Find out more about the role of Mayor and how to invite them to your event

As part of Team Wandsworth, the Mayor is here to listen to residents. You can contact the mayor’s team directly by email mayors.office@wandsworth.gov.uk 

Deputy Mayor

The Deputy Mayor was also announced this week as Cllr Rosemary Birchall. 

Cllr Birchall has lived in Wandsworth for over 30 years. Her Professional background is in early years education with special interest in SEND. 

Youth Mayors

A total of eight young people from across the borough stood for election as this year's Youth Mayor, with a week-long vote taking place at youth clubs in early May.

Kwasi Agyekum-Koranchie, 15, was elected as Youth Mayor, while Sophia Dyson, 16, was elected as Deputy Youth Mayor.

"As someone who has been attending school in Wandsworth for a number of years, I have been witness to the undeniable and incredible potential young people have to make a real difference and to catalyse change," said Kwasi.

Deputy Youth Mayor Sophia added: "By working together - through creativity, persistence, and strong youth representation - we can and will push for meaningful change."