Lord Mayor

"I’m Safiya Saeed, a proud resident of Burngreave and a dedicated community activist and leader. My journey in Sheffield began when I migrated here at the age of 13, and since then, I’ve been deeply committed to safeguarding and uplifting our vibrant community.

"From those early days, I have grown into a passionate advocate for representation and mentorship. As a single mother of 5 wonderful children, I’ve learned firsthand the importance of nurturing a supportive environment for the next generation. My work with Reach Up Youth is rooted in ensuring that young people in our community have the opportunities, guidance and safe spaces they need to thrive.

"A significant part of my journey has been founder of Reach Up Youth, a vibrant initiative dedicated to empowering young people, particularly those from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds. Through Reach Up Youth, we have built a network of ambassadors and leaders, provided professional platforms, and exposed them to opportunities such as independent living, confidence building, reducing isolation, and accessing vital services, including mental health support. We also run stalls and events to connect with wider services, creating a lasting impact. By empowering youth as the future, we emphasize equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring every young person has the opportunity to thrive and represent their own voices.

"Beyond my community work, I love travelling, connecting with friends, and socializing. I am passionate about continuously learning, often attending workshops and networking events to broaden my horizons and bring fresh ideas back to the community.

"Looking ahead to the coming year, I am incredibly proud to step into the role of Lord Mayor, making history as the first Black woman, wearing hijab to hold this position in Sheffield. My theme for the year is centred around what I love most: networking and connecting people. I aim to turn Sheffield into a thriving hub where investors, entrepreneurs, charities and residents can build partnerships and support each other. I want to gather Sheffield’s stories, amplify its voices, and proudly represent the spirit of our city. By developing these connections, we can build a future of collaboration and prosperity, ensuring that everyone in Sheffield is part of our shared success.

"I came to Sheffield in 1985, and this city has truly become my home – a place where I have always felt I belong."

"I'm currently the longest serving Sheffield City Councillor, having served continuously since I was first elected in May 1991.

"I was born in Buckinghamshire in 1967 and grew up in Guildford, Surrey. I studied Chemistry at Sheffield University, and like thousands of other Sheffield graduates, I stayed and made my home here.

"I represented Beauchief ward from 1991 to 2004, before moving to Fulwood ward, which I have represented ever since. Over the years, I've served on a wide range of committees and held a number of positions on the council, including Chair of Performance Review Committee, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Cabinet Member for Environment, and Chair of South West Local Area Committee. I have served on the South Yorkshire Pensions Authority since December 2006.

"I have worked as a political agent and trainer for the Liberal Democrats. I was appointed MBE for political service in August 2015.

"I'm married to Sue Alston, who has been a councillor for Fulwood ward since 2012. Sue grew up in north-east Derbyshire and obtained a BSc from Leicester University, later earning an MSc from Sheffield Hallam University. She moved to Sheffield in 1982 and worked for Sheffield Teaching Hospitals as a midwife until her retirement in 2023.

"Our first daughter, Helen, died at 8 months old. Our twins, Rachel and Richard, will be 30 this year. Before going on to university, they attended Mundella Primary, Nether Green Junior, and King Edward VII schools in Sheffield.

"I'm an avid reader and enjoy tabletop games. I've lived with severe asthma since I was a small child. Sue and I both enjoy performances at Sheffield Theatres as well as walking in the local countryside."