2026 Junior Mayor

This year, representatives from nine schools took part in the election, with 30 Children’s Advisory Group members participating and 21 students nominating for the role. Candidates presented speeches before a vote was held to elect the Junior Mayor and Deputy Junior Mayor. 

Congratulations to Fariha Rezaei, for being elected by her peers as Greater Dandenong’s Junior Mayor for 2026.

In her election speech, Junior Mayor Fariha Rezaei said young people deserved to be heard.

“Young people may not vote or sit in council chambers, but we are deeply affected by the decisions made today,” she said. “We are not just part of the present – we are part of the future. We have new ideas, creativity and a fresh perspective that can make our community better.”  

Fariha said one of her key priorities was strengthening communication between young people and Council. 

Alongside Fariha, a Deputy Junior Mayor was elected. Congratulations to Omar Abulughod, elected 2026 Deputy Junior Mayor.

Omar's vision is a connected and caring community.

“I want a place where we aren’t just neighbours, but a team – somewhere that’s safe, clean and actually feels friendly,” he said.