Kaya Comer-Schwartz

Kaya Comer-Schwartz was born in April 1986 and is a British politician. She currently serves as the Deputy Mayor of London for Policing and Crime, where she works to help keep the city safe.

Before this role, she was the Leader of Islington Council, making her the first black leader of Islington. In her time there, she focused on improving the community and supporting local people. Her work shows her dedication to public service and leadership.

Early life and career

Kaya Comer-Schwartz was born in Islington and 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 those who needed help and standing up for communities that were often overlooked.

Islington Council

Kaya Comer-Schwartz started 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, focusing on helping children, young people, and families. In May 2021, she became the Leader of Islington Council, the first black woman to hold this role. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped her community by organizing vaccinations for over 150,000 people, giving out laptops for remote learning, and lowering 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 chose not to.

Deputy mayor for policing and crime

In October 2024, Kaya Comer-Schwartz announced that she would stop being the leader of Islington Council. She took the new job as Deputy Mayor of London for Policing and Crime at London City Hall, replacing Sophie Linden.