The current Mayor is Councillor Manzoor Hussain

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Councillor Manzoor Hussain has taken over from out-going Mayor Princess Bright at the full Council Meeting held on Friday 22nd May 2026.

Councillor Hussain’s chosen charities for his Mayoral Year are Adanna Women’s Support Group and Prostate Cancer UK.

Adanna Women’s Support Group is a community organisation that supports Black, Asian and Multi-Ethnic women across the Borough of Barking and Dagenham and Iford facing issues such as violence, unemployment and isolation.

Prostate Cancer UK raises awareness of prostate cancer risk, provides expert information and funds research for better treatment.

A Message from the Mayor

I am deeply honoured to serve as Civic Mayor for 2026–2027, having dedicated many years to serving the residents of Barking and Dagenham through education, community engagement and public service.

I came to England in 1983 at the age of 17. This wonderful country is now my home, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunities it has given me. Through determination, hard work and education, I have been able to pursue my ambitions and build a successful career. My own journey reflects my belief that Britain offers people the opportunity to excel and achieve their dreams.

When I first arrived in the United Kingdom, I attended evening classes to learn English while continuing my studies. I completed my O Levels and A Levels while working part-time in a warehouse. I later graduated with a degree in Biotechnology and began my professional career with Unilever.

In 1993, I returned to university to gain teaching qualifications and pursue my passion for education. Since 1996, I have taught science to young people aged 11 to 18, a role that has been both rewarding and fulfilling. I owe much of my success to the support, guidance and blessings of my parents, whose values of hard work, integrity and perseverance continue to inspire me every day.

I moved to Barking 1996 and have proudly called the borough my home ever since. I have also served as a parent governor at a local sixth-form school, helping to support the education and development of young people in our community.

Alongside my professional career, I have always been committed to community service. I became actively involved in local community organisations, serving as General Secretary and later as President for two years. Through these roles, I worked with residents and volunteers to strengthen community ties and support local initiatives.

In 2005, I joined the Labour Party. I was first elected as a Councillor in 2010 and returned to the Council in 2022. I am now serving my third term as a Councillor and am honoured that my fellow Councillors have elected me as Civic Mayor for 2026–2027.

As Civic Mayor, I have chosen to support two charities that carry great personal significance. The first is Prostate Cancer UK, which works tirelessly to raise awareness, provide support to those affected by prostate cancer and fund vital research. The second is Adanna Women's Support Group, a remarkable organisation that supports women experiencing domestic violence, helping them rebuild their confidence, independence and hope for the future. Through my Mayoral year, I hope to raise both awareness and funds for these important causes.

As Mayor, I am committed to representing all residents of Barking and Dagenham, celebrating the borough's diversity, supporting local charities and community organisations, and promoting opportunities for future generations. It is a privilege to serve this borough and its people, and I look forward to working with residents, businesses and community groups throughout my mayoral year.

My guiding principle remains simple: to serve the people of Barking and Dagenham with dedication, respect and integrity.