The Mayor and the Deputy Mayor
The Mayor of Luton is Councillor Javed Hussain. The Deputy Mayor is Councillor Fatima Begum. There were both officially appointed on 19 May 2026.
The Mayor of Luton: Councillor Javed Hussain
I am proud to have called Luton home for the past 47 years, maintaining a strong connection to our town, its people and the diverse communities that make it such a vibrant place to live and work. Family has always been at the heart of my life. I am married with two children, both of whom have gone on to establish successful careers reflecting the values of hard work, dedication and opportunity that have guided our family.
My professional career spanned 24 years within the engineering and manufacturing sector during which I achieved several promotions through commitment, perseverance and consistently delivering results. My final role was as a Test Engineering Manager at a leading design and manufacturing company based in Luton. This position enabled me to develop extensive experience in leadership, operational management, quality assurance and engineering excellence, whilst building a reputation for professionalism, integrity and effective delivery.
My commitment to public service led me into local government where I have had the privilege of serving the residents of Luton as a councillor. Following my election, I was entrusted with Cabinet responsibility during my first term providing strategic leadership and oversight of key council services. In subsequent years I was honoured to serve as Deputy Leader of the Council working collaboratively with colleagues, partners and residents to help shape the future of our town and deliver positive outcomes for local communities.
Throughout both my professional and political careers I have remained firmly committed to the principles of accountability, transparency and delivering on promises. I believe that effective leadership is built on honesty, responsibility and a proactive approach to solving challenges. With a strong commitment to public service and a practical can-do attitude. I have always sought to turn ambition into action and ensure that commitments translate into meaningful results for the people I serve.
It is a tremendous honour and privilege to serve as Mayor of Luton for 2026–27 and I look forward to representing our town, celebrating its achievements and supporting the many individuals, organisations and communities that contribute so much to Luton’s success.
The Deputy Mayor: Councillor Fatima Begum
Councillor Fatima Begum is honoured to serve as the Deputy Mayor of Luton and is proud to represent a town she has been serving since 2014.
With a career dedicated to public service, Fatima has always been passionate about improving the lives of others. Alongside her role as a councillor, she works as a Public Health Officer for a neighbouring local authority, leading initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles, reduce health inequalities and improve outcomes for local communities.
Before entering local government, Fatima worked with CYCD, delivering a wide range of projects supporting children, young people, families and communities. Throughout her career, she has been committed to empowering people, building partnerships and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive.
Elected to represent Central Ward, Fatima is a strong advocate for equality, inclusion and community cohesion. She works closely with residents, community organisations, charities and faith groups, believing that Luton's greatest strength is its diversity. She has also proudly spearheaded the Council's South Asian Heritage Month celebrations over the past two years, celebrating the history, heritage and contributions of South Asian communities and creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds to come together.
Fatima also serves as a Public Governor for East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT), helping to ensure that the voices of patients, carers and local communities help shape NHS services.
Following her own kidney transplant, Fatima has become a passionate ambassador for organ donation. By sharing her personal journey, she hopes to encourage families to have important conversations that can ultimately save lives.
Known for her warmth, compassion and approachable nature, Fatima believes leadership is about service. She is committed to listening, supporting others and making a lasting difference to the communities she serves.
Outside of her civic and professional roles, Fatima has a passion for fashion and proudly celebrates her South Asian heritage. Whether attending civic engagements or community events, she enjoys showcasing traditional and contemporary South Asian fashion, believing that culture should be celebrated, shared and embraced. She sees fashion as a way of expressing identity and is proud to represent her heritage wherever she goes.
As Deputy Mayor, Fatima is honoured to represent the people of Luton and looks forward to supporting local organisations, meeting residents and celebrating the incredible diversity, talent and community spirit that make Luton such a special place.