A Bradford councillor has become Britain’s first female Muslim Mayor.
Councillor Naveeda Ikram has made history after being officially installed in the role in a ceremony alongside husband Saqib Salam Shah, who is her Consort for the year.
The mum-of-three said: “I am the first British female Muslim Lord Mayor. It shows the progress that has been made in this country.
“I am looking forward to being a positive and active ambassador for this wonderful district.
“I’m keen to see more participation and better confidence from all communities in the democratic process.
“I can say whole-heartedly I have had overwhelming and massive support and as a British Asian I think it shows what a tolerant society we are living in.
“It is a great privilege to be selected as Lord Mayor of Bradford.”
She has announced that Bradford’s Marie Curie Cancer Care and disabled people’s charity Bradnet will be her chosen charities for the year.
She added: “I’m delighted to have chosen two charities whose work helps and supports local people. Money raised from my charity appeal will stay in Bradford to support the wonderful work carried out in the district by Marie Curie Hospice Bradford and Bradnet.”
Councillor Ikram was elected to Bradford Council in 2004. She graduated in Psychology from Manchester and holds an MSc degree in Sociology from Punjab University. She has been an employee of Pakistan International Airlines in Bradford since 1999, where she works in the marketing and sales department.