Sadiq's Story
London gave Sadiq the chance to go from the council estate where he grew up to being Mayor of the greatest city on earth.
He strongly believes that all Londoners—regardless of borough or background—should be given the same opportunities they need to fulfil their potential. It’s why he’s dedicated his life to public service; because he’s passionate about giving back to the city that’s given so much to him and his family.
Nothing motivates him more than tackling injustice and inequality, and removing the barriers that prevent Londoners from getting on and making the most of their talents.
Standing up for victims of discrimination
A child of immigrants, Sadiq was born and raised in Tooting, south London, where he still lives today.His father was a bus driver and his mother a seamstress. Growing up, money was tight but thanks to a secure council home, a good comprehensive school education and affordable university tuition, Sadiq was able to qualify as a human rights lawyer and put his principles into practice, representing victims of discrimination.He gave up a distinguished, successful career in law because he felt he could make a bigger difference to people’s lives working in politics. After serving as the MP for Tooting for 11 years, during which time he became the first Muslim to attend cabinet as a Minister for Transport, Sadiq successfully stood to be Mayor of London.
Building a better London for everyone
In the years since, he has worked tirelessly to create the conditions that allow Londoners to thrive. His priorities are: making London safer; tackling air pollution and the climate crisis; building more affordable homes, supporting renters and tackling homelessness; making transport better and more affordable; providing opportunities for young Londoners to reach their potential; and enabling London’s businesses to thrive and create jobs.
His mission now is to continue building a better London for everyone—a city that is fairer, safer, greener, more prosperous and more affordable for all.
During a cost-of-living crisis, this includes extending a helping hand to those who need it, with initiatives like his flagship Free School Meals programme and freezing TfL fares for another year.
Bringing communities together
At a time when some are trying to stoke up crude culture wars and divide people, Sadiq is determined to unite London’s communities and defend our city’s values of openness, inclusion, equality and respect for diversity.In Sadiq’s view, it’s these things that not only make London special, but the greatest city in the world.
