Kaya Comer-Schwartz

Kaya Comer-Schwartz was born in April 1986. She is a British politician. She is the Deputy Mayor of London for Policing and Crime. In this job, she helps keep the city safe.

Before this, she was the Leader of Islington Council. She was the first black leader of Islington. She worked to improve the community and support local people. Her work shows her dedication to public service.

Early life and career

Kaya Comer-Schwartz was born in Islington. She has roots in Zimbabwe and Austrian-Jewish families. She started her career helping people through charities like the Centre for Mental Health, Shelter, World Jewish Relief, and The Women's Library. Her work focused on supporting people who needed help and standing up for communities that were often overlooked.

Islington Council

Kaya Comer-Schwartz began her political career when she was elected to represent the Junction ward on the Islington Council in 2013. She was re-elected in 2014, 2018, and 2022.

In 2020, she became the first black Deputy Leader of Islington Council, working to support children, young people, and families. In May 2021, she became the Leader of Islington Council, the first black woman to hold this position. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped her community by organizing vaccinations, providing laptops for remote learning, and reducing council tax for those in need. In July 2023, she supported recognizing Michael Collins, an important figure from Ireland's history who once lived in Islington. The BBC reported she was asked to run against Jeremy Corbyn for the Islington North in the July 2024 United Kingdom general election, but she decided not to.

Deputy mayor for policing and crime

In October 2024, Kaya Comer-Schwartz stopped being the leader of Islington Council. She began a new job as the Deputy Mayor of London for Policing and Crime at London City Hall, replacing Sophie Linden.