Biography
Councillor Shaukat Ali, Lord Mayor
Councillor Shaukat Ali was born in District Mirpur, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan in 1965. He was raised in the village of Batli in Kashmir, where he completed his education at a local school up to matriculation level (equivalent to GCSEs). Coming from humble beginnings, his early life was shaped by strong community values and a commitment to hard work.
In 1982, at the age of 16, Shaukat came to Manchester, with no prior knowledge of the English language. He entered the workforce and spent several years employed in the textile manufacturing sector. He later became self-employed, successfully running a furniture business and subsequently a small food outlet. He also obtained a licence to operate as a taxi driver in Manchester, a role he held for several years. Alongside work, Shaukat attended evening classes to learn English and later completed an IT diploma at City College Manchester.
Shaukat has long been dedicated to community service and to improving the lives of local residents. He attributes this strong sense of social responsibility to the influence of his late father, who inspired him to serve others and contribute positively to the wider community. During Covid-19, Shaukat volunteered with a local charity, Rainbow Surprise, to help deliver essential food for residents in and around North Manchester.
Shaukat was first elected as a councillor in 2012, accumulating since over 13 years of experience in local government. During this time, he has served on a range of committees, including the Planning and Highways Committee, Neighbourhood Committee, and Children’s Scrutiny Committee. He has also been a member of the Northwards Housing Board and the Pennine Acute Health Board and has served on the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Waste Authority.
Shaukat is supported by his wife, Kausar Parveen, who will serve as Lady Mayoress throughout his year as Lord Mayor. They have four children – two sons and two daughters. Shaukat enjoys cricket and countryside walks.
During his mayoral year, he will focus on supporting children in social care and strengthening community cohesion across the city.
Deputy Lord Mayor
The Deputy Lord Mayor is Councillor Jill Lovecy.