08 Apr Behind the Mayor’s Desk: What Kamran Learned as Mayor
Every year, Youth Central’s Mayor for a Day contest gives young Calgarians the opportunity to step up, speak out, and share their vision for a better city. This unique initiative, part of the Mayor’s Youth Council program, empowers youth to take an active role in civic leadership and local governance. It’s not just about imagining change—it’s about making it happen.
This year, we’re excited to introduce Kamran, the 2025 Mayor for a Day winner! Kamran’s passion for civic engagement and innovative ideas stood out among a pool of impressive submissions, earning him the opportunity to spend a day with Mayor Jyoti Gondek and city administration. Here’s a peek at his proposal:
1. Bridge the Gap Between Young Leaders and Local Government
Kamran’s first proposal was inspired by similar initiatives in cities like Edmonton, Vancouver, and Leduc, Kamran envisions a bi-annual program that allows youth to step into the roles of city councilors, debate local issues, and draft policy recommendations.
“The barriers to entering municipal leadership are high,” Kamran said. “Many young people don’t know how city council works or fear making mistakes. A Youth Mock City Council would give them a chance to learn, engage and bring forward real solutions without fear.”
Looking to get involved? Apply for Youth Central’s Mayor’s Youth Council. Young women and gender diverse youth in grades 9 to 12 are also invited to take part in She Governs.
2. Smart Traffic Solutions: Reduce Gridlock and Enhancing Safety
Kamran’s second proposal aims to leverage technology to make our roads safer and more efficient. He advocates for the expansion of smart traffic management systems—similar to those tested in New York and Vancouver—which use roadside sensors and smart traffic lights to optimize traffic flow and reduce gridlock.
“By implementing adaptive traffic lights and real-time traffic monitoring, we can reduce congestion, lower fuel costs, and make our roads safer,” he says. “It’s an investment in efficiency and sustainability.”
3. Enhance Transparency Through ‘Calgary Conversations’
Public trust in government is crucial, and Kamran’s final proposal seeks to enhance civic transparency through an expanded version of the City of Calgary’s podcast series, Calgary Conversations. He proposes increasing the frequency of these discussions and featuring a wider range of civic leaders, including representatives from the Calgary Police Service, Parks Foundation Calgary, and the Mayor’s Youth Council.
“When citizens understand how decisions are made, they feel more connected to their city,” Kamran explains.
Looking Ahead: Youth Voices Matter
Kamran’s experience as Mayor for a Day not only gave him a behind-the-scenes look at city operations but also highlighted the power of youth voices in shaping Calgary’s future. Highlights from the day included “talking about members of the municipal governments about ideas that I feel youth really resonate with and are passionate about.”
In his experience being Mayor, Kamran “learned that it’s easy to make quick decisions but it’s vital to ensure those decisions are sustainable, equitable, and meaningful. Every single decision requires meticulous evaluation.”
His message to other Calgary youth? “Politics always begins with proactive initiative. It is on you to grow as a person, develop your skills and get the experience you want. I was looking for a unique, one-of-a-kind experience to propel my career in politics as a Calgarian youth. I realised that the shot was worth taking. I urge you to be ambitious, aim for the moon and you’ll land on at least one star.”
Kamran’s vision and leadership remind us that young people aren’t just the leaders of tomorrow—they’re shaping Calgary today.
Mayor for a Day is just one of hundreds of opportunities available through Youth Central. What are you waiting for? Join us and let’s show Calgary the power of its youth!
Check out Kamran’s story in the news across Calgary: