From BMX Champion to Mayoral Hopeful: Michael Pusey MBE's Vision for Croydon
Michael Pusey MBE, a candidate in the Croydon mayoral election, is leveraging his diverse background in BMX sports and music to champion youth engagement as the cornerstone of his campaign. Representing the Taking the Initiative Party, Pusey asserts that reconnecting with young people is essential to improving Croydon's reputation and addressing pressing issues like youth violence.
A Solutions-Oriented Approach to Youth Challenges
In an interview with the Local Democracy Reporting Service ahead of the May 7 local elections, Pusey emphasized the need for innovative strategies to engage teenagers who feel disconnected from traditional youth services. He praised existing facilities such as the Legacy Youth Zone in Thornton Heath but noted they are inadequate to serve the entire borough.
"What you need to get the youth involved is elder men, just a bit older than the ones causing the trouble, to control those youth," Pusey explained. He advocates for pairing local mentors with high-profile cultural figures, like Stormzy, to support authorities in steering young people toward positive paths. "Police can't do that on their own; it is about bringing the right people from the community in to help steer the youth in the right direction," he added, suggesting outreach could occur in person or via platforms like TikTok.
A Multifaceted Career: DJ, MBE Recipient, and Community Leader
Before entering politics, Pusey built a reputation as a DJ on Choice FM under the name CK Flash, promoting artists such as Dizzee Rascal and So Solid Crew, and performing in Ibiza clubs. His contributions to youth and sport earned him an MBE in 2015, notably for raising £1.2 million to build a BMX track in Burgess Park and mentoring Olympic riders, including a silver medalist.
Having lived in Croydon for 24 years, Pusey has also worked on housing vulnerable youth through his 'A Safe House' programme. "I have always been a solutions guy," he stated, highlighting his consistent involvement in community meetings over the past few years to develop practical solutions.
Tackling Financial Strain and Revitalizing Croydon
Pusey believes his experience positions him well to address cost-of-living pressures, including rising council tax and business rates. He recounted a resident's complaint: "I spoke to one person who said three years ago their council tax per year was £900, now it's £1,500. People are saying all our council taxes have gone up but I can't see where that money has gone."
To combat Croydon's financial challenges, including a £1.4 billion debt burden, Pusey plans to scrutinize spending on temporary housing and major contractors, citing overspends like the Fairfield Halls redevelopment. He aims to negotiate a debt write-off with central government, viewing even a partial reduction as a win. Additionally, he proposes revitalizing the town center by reviewing disused buildings, hosting film and music festivals, and attracting tech firms like Google or Facebook to boost revenue and improve Croydon's image.
Independent Stance and Electoral Prospects
Pusey aligned with the Taking the Initiative Party due to its independence and community ties, criticizing established parties for inaction. "People are tired of talking and no action, and people feel like that is what they are getting with the other parties," he said. In his pitch to voters, he promised transparency and accessibility: "There is no gatekeeping from me. I am going to tell you the truth. If there is something to be done I am going to be the one people can call."
This marks the party's second mayoral bid, following Farah London's sixth-place finish in 2022. Pusey is also standing as a councillor in South Norwood, with the party fielding 15 candidates across multiple wards. His campaign underscores a commitment to youth engagement, financial accountability, and community-driven solutions in Croydon's political landscape.
