Looking for a new children's mayor!
Municipality of Zoetermeer is looking for a new children's mayor. Children in 7th grade who live in Zoetermeer and attend school there can apply through October 4. The new children's mayor will succeed Sarah and serve as the face and voice of the children of Zoetermeer for one year.
What does a child mayor do?
The children’s mayor represents the children of Zoetermeer and attends all kinds of special events in the city. These include the arrival of Sinterklaas, King’s Day, the May 4 commemoration, Light Night, and the mayor’s breakfast. The children’s mayor also opens events, gives short speeches, and contributes ideas on topics that are important to children.
Mayor Michel Bezuijen: "The children's mayor serves as a valuable link between the municipality and Zoetermeer's youngest residents. I believe it's important for children to feel heard and to have a say in matters concerning their city. Together with the children's mayor, we give children a voice and a face in Zoetermeer."
For Children's Mayor Sarah, too, representing children is a top priority: "I want to give children a voice, because they are our future. And I think it's important that all children have enough opportunities."
The child mayor attends various events alongside the mayor. The child mayor also regularly makes videos with the municipality to tell other children about these events.
Who can apply?
Children can register if they:
- Live in Zoetermeer and go to school
- Are in grade 7
- be available throughout the entire school year
- have enough time for the activities
- have permission from their parents or guardians
Registration Process
Children who would like to become the children’s mayor can apply through October 4, 2026. To apply, they must create a short video in which they introduce themselves, explain what matters to them, and share why they want to become the children’s mayor of Zoetermeer.
More information about the position and the application process can be found at www.zoetermeer.nl/kinderburgemeester.
Election
After the registration period, a number of candidates will be selected for the election of the new children’s mayor. During the election on November 9, they will have the opportunity to explain why they would like to become children’s mayor. Afterward, it will be announced who will succeed Sarah as children’s mayor of Zoetermeer.
Saying Goodbye to Sarah
The current children’s mayor, Sarah, will soon be wrapping up her term. Over the past year, she has attended various events and special occasions in Zoetermeer in her role as children’s mayor. On November 19, she will pass the baton to her successor.
