Councillor Rukhsana Ismail has taken up the role of Mayor of Rotherham for 2025–2026, becoming the borough’s First Citizen and the 120th Mayor.
With a strong background in voluntary work and public service, Councillor Ismail brings passion, experience, and a deep sense of civic responsibility to the role. She succeeds outgoing Mayor, Councillor Sheila Cowen, and is joined in office by her daughter, who will serve as her Consort — a moment of great personal pride and inspiration for the Mayor.
Councillor Ismail, who represents the Rotherham East Ward, has dedicated her career to supporting vulnerable people — from frontline roles in domestic abuse services to becoming Chief Executive of a charity in Nottinghamshire. She also serves as a Magistrate, Vice Chair of Unison Sheffield, and trustee of several local charities — demonstrating a longstanding commitment to giving back to the community she now calls home.
Reflecting on her appointment, Councillor Ismail said: “This is a huge honour and responsibility. Being Mayor of Rotherham is not just a role — it’s a platform to champion the people, communities, and causes that make our borough special. I want to inspire others, especially young women and girls, to believe in themselves and know that anything is possible. If I can achieve this, so can they.”
During her Mayoral year, Councillor Ismail will support four charities that reflect the compassion, strength and diversity of Rotherham:
- Rotherham Hospice Trust – Providing specialist palliative care.
- Age UK Rotherham – Supporting older residents to live well.
- Sense Rotherham – Empowering people with complex communication needs.
- Apna Haq – Supporting BME women and girls affected by violence.
“These charities speak to the heart of what matters in Rotherham – care, dignity, inclusion and hope,” the Mayor added. “Together, they represent every stage of life and every corner of our community.”