Sarah is the new children's mayor of Zoetermeer

Mayor Bezuijen officially installed Sarah as child mayor of Zoetermeer on Monday, November 3, 2025. Her predecessor Steff was also present and proudly handed the chain of office to her.

Children's Mayor Sarah and Mayor Bezuijen

What does the children's mayor do?

The children's mayor ensures that children are heard within the municipality. She thinks, talks and is visible at all kinds of fun and important moments in the city.

Duties include:

  • Representing children in Zoetermeer.
  • Conduct openings at events or activities.
  • Give a talk at meetings.
  • To be a listening ear for children with ideas for the city.
  • Attend activities and visits with the mayor or aldermen.

So as children's mayor, you have a special and varied role. You visit many places and meet all kinds of people. Together with the mayor Sarah is present at the entry of Sinterklaas, Night of Lights, King's Day, the 4th of May commemoration and the mayors (school) breakfast.

Become a children's mayor yourself?

Does that sound like you? Every school year, Zoetermeer seeks a new children's mayor. In September, we put out a call for candidates for the 2026-2027 school year (November to November).

You can join if you:

  • lives in Zoetermeer and attends school;
  • is in grade 7;
  • have enough time;
  • Are available throughout the school year;
  • have permission from your parents or guardians.

What to do.

  1. Create a short video of no more than 1 minute.
  2. Tell us who you are, what you like and care about, and what you want to do for children in Zoetermeer.
  3. Send your video (MP4 file or YouTube link) to kinderburgemeester@zoetermeer.nl.
  4. In your email, put your name, address, city, phone number, school and the contact information of one of your parents or guardians.

What happens next?

A jury reviews all entries and chooses up to 10 nominees. They get to make their pitch during an election. Then a vote is taken to decide who will become the new children's mayor.

Who went before Sarah?

Last school year, Steff was children's mayor of Zoetermeer.

Children's Mayor Steff and Mayor Bezuijen

Steff:
"I am very proud that I was allowed to be child mayor of Zoetermeer. I enjoyed it and carried the chain with pride."

Contact

Do you have questions or want to know more? Please email kinderburgemeester@zoetermeer.nl.