Zaker Choudhry installed as Lord Mayor of Birmingham

Councillor Zaker Choudhry has been formally installed as Lord Mayor of Birmingham, becoming the city's first citizen for the coming year.

The Lord Mayor is the ceremonial head of Birmingham City Council, presiding over its civic functions, representing the city at official events and acting as a focal point in times of crisis, tragedy or celebration.

From Azad Kashmir to Birmingham

Councillor Choudhry was born in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, and grew up in a close-knit rural community. Several generations of his family served in the armed forces, including his father, who was recognised by King George VI in 1945 for his service during the Second World War.

He moved to Birmingham in 1969 at the age of 14, taking on a new language, school system and culture. While studying he worked in manufacturing, later moving into senior operational roles, and went on to build business interests in property and local enterprises.

Twenty years as a councillor

He was first elected as a councillor in 2006, and has represented Bordesley Green and South Yardley. He has served as a lead member of the police authority and vice chair of the council's Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee, and on strategic transport and planning bodies.

He has long supported food banks and voluntary organisations, helped coordinate community support during the Covid-19 pandemic, and, as chairman of his local mosque, led fundraising for Birmingham charities and for relief after the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan and Azad Kashmir.

The year ahead

He will be supported by his Lady Mayoress, Zubeda Rashid, who was born, raised and educated in Birmingham.

During his year in office he will champion the voluntary sector, celebrate the work of community groups and charities, and promote unity across the city's communities.

"It is a profound honour to serve Birmingham as Lord Mayor. This city welcomed me as a young teenager and gave me the opportunity to build a life rooted in service, hard work and community," he said.

"I look forward to representing all our residents and celebrating the people and organisations who make Birmingham such a remarkable city," he added.

An ancient office

Birmingham has had a Lord Mayor since 1896, when the title was granted by Queen Victoria. The Lord Mayor is chosen by councillors each year and traditionally sets aside party politics for the year in office, chairing meetings of the full council and hosting civic visitors at the Council House. Councillor Choudhry takes over from Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE.