TWO aspiring politicians have been chosen to lead a youth council after their captivating speeches.

Isabella Blair, 16, a Southend High School for Girls pupil, was elected as the Southend Youth Mayor and Elena Johnson, 16, a student at Westcliff High for Boys as deputy Youth Mayor.

They now lead Southend Youth Council for the next six months, after their campaign speeches clinched votes from their fellow council members at a ceremony earlier this month.

Isabella said: “I wanted to be youth mayor because I wanted to make a difference in the area, and I'm really passionate about politics and changing the lives of young people in Southend.

“During my term, I want to make sure I make a positive difference, and to inspire the youth in the area to get involved in the community, as I feel that by working together we can make a lasting impact.”

She added said she will be campaiging on the pros of lowering the voting age to 16, in a intiative that is also being promoted by the British Youth Council Elena campaigned on a variety of issues, including improving the Youth Council’s website, and staging an awards ceremony that is run by youngsters to champion people of that age, working with schools.

Labour’s Ann Jones, councillor responsible for children and learning on Southend Council, said: “These show how much our thriving Youth Council is a positive force to be reckoned with. We wish our new youth mayor and deputy all the very best in their new roles.”