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Climate action in Leeds, as told by an 11-year-old politician

Young people in Leeds now live in a world where stories about climate change and extreme weather are an almost-daily part of the news cycle.


In many ways, it would be understandable if they felt frustrated and powerless. After all, schoolkids can't vote or run for high office, but they also aren't driving new SUVs, lobbying politicians for oil-drilling licenses, or relentlessly buying consumer goods which require huge resources to produce.


But in reality - and even if it feels like the Youth Strike for Climate moment is now several years past - there are plenty of young people pushing for positive action on climate.


One great local example Leeds is Mohammed Hussein, who was elected Children's Mayor for Leeds after running with with a focus on climate.


Mohammed, 11, recently completed his Mayoral term, as well as his final year at Ireland Wood Primary School. Therefore, Climate Action Leeds wanted to ask Mohammed about the lessons he learned during his year in office. In what appears to be a typically bright move, Mohammed - now a part of Leeds Youth Council and Traffic Ambassador at Lawnswood High School - enlisted his brother Mustafa, 9, as interviewer, and his dad Ahmed as cameraman.


Regardless of your age or involvement in climate action, we think you'll be impressed and inspired by how these two boys discuss this big subject.


Q: Mohammed, what did you learn about local people's feelings on climate change during your time as Children's Mayor?




Q: And what are you most proud to have done during your time as Mayor?




Q: What do you think would make the biggest positive difference to the environment in Leeds within the next 10 years?




Q: Having completed your term as Children's Mayor, what is your message for other young people in Leeds when it comes to climate change?



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