First Muslim and female child Prime Minister leads children’s parliament

Eleven-year-old Naila Seetal was sworn in as the first Muslim and female child prime minister of the Sir David Amess UK Children's Parliament, marking a significant milestone. Naila took over the job on January 6 and contributes a combination of leadership, passion, and commitment to this important post.

"When I was first elected as Deputy Child Prime Minister, I felt, really, excited and proud to be trusted with such an important role," Naila told The Muslim News, reflecting on her experience. It was an excellent chance to gain knowledge and make a contribution. I feel a mix of responsibility and exhilaration as I take over as prime minister. Being able to guide and represent the parliament's youth is an honor, and I'm prepared to rise to the responsibilities of the position and keep having a constructive influence.

The Sir David Amess UK Children’s Parliament, founded in 2021, empowers primary students aged 7–12 to develop leadership, oracy, and critical thinking skills while tackling important issues. Over three years, 2,400 children have engaged with MPs at school and in Westminster, gaining a sense of agency. As Sir David Amess stated in The Express on August 28, 2021, “I think it is so important that we get young people involved and interested in politics.” The Parliament hosts virtual sessions, Westminster “Select Committees,” and local activities like an ‘emergency cobra meeting’ on coastal erosion. Children vote on key issues, recorded Hansard-style, and contribute via online “Topic Groups.” The Annual ‘Child Prime Minister Election,’ inspired by Sir David Amess’s childhood party, selects leaders who speak at events like London Tech Week, COP28, and Davos, embodying Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle’s call to “Get Involved!”

Naila’s agenda as Child Prime Minister focuses on education, the environment, and youth leadership. “As Child Prime Minister, I’ll be focusing on policies that improve education, protect the environment, and create opportunities for young people to get involved in leadership roles. I want to ensure that children have access to quality education, live in an environment that is safe and sustainable, and have platforms to express their ideas and contribute to decision-making. These are issues that are important to me, and I believe they can make a real difference in the lives of children everywhere,” she explained.

Naila is inspired by prominent figures in history, particularly Winston Churchill. “He demonstrated remarkable leadership, resilience, and determination, especially during times of crisis. His ability to inspire and unite people, even in the most challenging situations, truly inspires me,” she said.

Naila joined the parliament to amplify the voices of young people. “I wanted to have a platform to speak up on issues that matter to me and other young people. I’ve always been passionate about making a difference and being part of a group where we can all share our ideas and work towards solutions,” she shared.

Under her leadership, the parliament will continue exploring key issues like AI and the future of work—topics championed by both Naila and Baroness Uddin, co-chair of the APPG of the Children’s Parliament. Baroness Uddin remarked, “Her progressive ideas are truly inspiring, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact she will make.”

Naila’s aspirations extend beyond the Children’s Parliament. “I would love to become a Prime Minister one day! Being the Prime Minister of a country is a huge responsibility, but it’s also an opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives,” she declared.

With her current role, Naila is laying the foundation for a future in leadership, inspired by her family’s encouragement and her own determination. “While no one in my immediate family is involved in politics, my family has always encouraged me to follow my passions and to stand up for what I believe in,” she added.

Naila’s dedication to public service and her ability to inspire others were evident during her meeting with Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons. “I was honoured to have the chance to meet him, as I know he is a very busy man. He mentioned that he thought the animal cruelty law was a very good and important law, which was fantastic to hear,” she recounted.