MK City Council announce Councillor Champions to specialise in advocating for key groups and priorities

Milton Keynes City Council has appointed a new team of Councillor Champions with the idea they will help promote and advocate for key groups and priorities across the city.

According to the City Council, the designated champions will work with residents, community organisations and partners to raise awareness of important issues, ensure voices are heard and help shape council policies and services.

In a statement, they said, “The Councillor Champion roles help strengthen links between the city council and local communities, ensuring important issues and resident perspectives remain at the heart of decision-making in Milton Keynes.”

Councillor Paul Trendall will continue as the City Council’s Armed Forces Champion, a role he has held since 2020, as well as being the Mayor of Milton Keynes for 2026/27. Mayor Trendall brings valuable experience from his service with the Royal Green Jackets, where he achieved the rank of Warrant Officer Class 2 (RSWO).

Councillor Jordan Coventry has been appointed as the Council’s LGBTQI+ Champion. Cllr Coventry is passionate about creating a community where everyone feels valued, respected and able to be themselves, and will champion inclusion and understanding across Milton Keynes.

Councillor Nana Ama Ofori-Atta takes on the role of Ethnic Minority Champion. With more than 25 years’ experience in film, television, education and community engagement, her work has focused on empowerment, education and celebrating diversity.

Councillor Macsene Isles-Ahite has been appointed Youth Democracy Champion. Already serving on youth committees at both parish and city council level, Cllr Isles-Ahite is committed to ensuring young people’s voices are heard and will work closely with the Youth Council to support its priorities and campaigns.

Councillor David Hopkins becomes the city council’s Older Persons’ Champion. He will work to ensure the needs and views of older residents are reflected in council policies and services, while promoting active, healthy and independent lives for older people.

Councillor Wing Tsang has been appointed Mental Health Champion. Cllr Tsang will work with residents, community groups and health partners to raise awareness of mental health, tackle stigma and encourage people to access support when they need it.

Councillor Marie Bradburn takes on the role of Active Travel Champion. She will promote the benefits of walking, wheeling and cycling, support improvements to active travel infrastructure and encourage more residents to choose sustainable, healthy and cost-effective ways to travel.

Leader of MK City Council, Cllr Jane Carr, said, “We have an excellent team of Councillor Champions who bring a wealth of expertise, experience and passion to their respective roles.

“I’m particularly pleased that this is a cross-party group of councillors, reflecting our shared commitment to representing and supporting all of our communities across Milton Keynes.

“Each Champion will play an important role in ensuring the voices of residents are heard and championing issues that matter most to them. I look forward to working with them and seeing the positive impact they make for our city.”