Sylbourne Sydial, the Conservative candidate for the Mayor of Lewisham, has announced plans to open a youth empowerment hub in every ward and appoint a 'housing tsar' to address the housing crisis. Sydial, who is also standing as a councillor candidate for Grove Park Ward, shared his vision with the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).
Background and Career
Sydial moved to the UK from Jamaica in 1992 to study law, graduating in 2002. He has since worked as a child and family lawyer for multiple local authorities. In addition to his legal career, he hosts a talk show, works as a motivational speaker, and creates content. A long-time Conservative party member, he previously belonged to the party in the Dulwich and West Norwood constituency.
Explaining his decision to join the Conservatives, Sydial said: 'I felt it was more something I could relate with, and I didn't believe that as Black people, we should all be in one party. We need to be strategic.' He also founded Facilitators for a Better Jamaica (FFBJ) in 2003, a lobbyist group addressing issues affecting Jamaicans globally.
Youth Empowerment Hubs
A central pillar of Sydial's campaign is investing in young people through 'youth empowerment hubs' (YEH). He stated: 'Too many young people feel disconnected from real opportunity. These hubs will create a clear pathway linking education, skills, training, mentoring, and employment.' He envisions one hub in every ward, expanding the traditional concept of youth centres.
Housing Tsar and Empty Homes
Sydial proposes a housing tsar to identify and repurpose empty homes across the borough. He emphasized collaboration with developers rather than confrontation: 'I believe advocacy is crucial. Instead of fighting developers, have conversations from the start.' He noted that developments like Lewisham Shopping Centre promise only 20% affordable housing, urging immediate action on vacant properties.
Tackling Fly-Tipping
Sydial also pledged to combat fly-tipping by publishing a public clean-up map showing reported incidents, clearance status, and repeat offences. He suggested partnerships with neighbouring boroughs like Bromley to improve waste disposal access, acknowledging that not all residents can drive to dumps.
Political Context
Lewisham has been predominantly Labour-controlled since 1971, but Sydial remains undeterred. He said: 'Many say join Labour for an easier path, but I don't believe in handouts. I want change, and you can't be the same to achieve that.' He criticized Labour as 'bankrupt of ideas' and expressed confidence in his vision to 'change the game in Lewisham politics.'
Upcoming Elections
On May 7, Lewisham residents will vote for local councillors and the directly-elected Mayor. The borough is one of five in London with this system. The eight candidates include Sylbourne Sydial (Conservative), Amanda De Ryk (Labour and Co-operative), Liam Shrivastava (Green), Josh Matthews (Liberal Democrats), Pete Newman (Reform UK), Jay Delaney Coward (Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition), Kayode Damali (Independent), and Roger Mighton (Independent).
