Reza (10) is the new children's mayor of Opsterland
The municipality of Opsterland has a new child mayor. Ten-year-old Reza Konings from Langezwaag is taking over from Liz van Es and will be working on behalf of all children in Opsterland during the coming school year.
During the city council meeting on September 22, 2026, Liz stepped down from her special role. She looks back on her year as children’s mayor with great joy. She attended the Parade, celebrated King’s Day, and even joined the polonaise during Carnival in Tijnje. “I especially loved being a voice for children and hearing what they think is important for the city.”
Mayor Andries Bouwman then welcomed Reza as his new colleague. When asked how she feels in her new role, Reza replied that she was very surprised when she received the call with the news: “I was absolutely shocked. I hadn’t expected to be chosen at all.”
Still, she already knows exactly why she ran for office. “I think it’s important that children are seen and heard. That doesn’t always happen. I’d like to do something about that.”
Reza already has clear ideas for her year in office. For example, she wants to draw attention to children who are being bullied and to playgrounds that are accessible to everyone. "Some children with disabilities can't play everywhere. I think it's important that something be done about that."
She also thinks about the children staying at the transitional housing facility in Beetsterzwaag. “I think it would be nice to do something together sometime—like going to an amusement park or organizing a cooking workshop. That way, the children can meet each other and have fun together.”
In addition to her role as children’s mayor, Reza is in 7th grade at It Aventoer Elementary School in Langezwaag. In her free time, she enjoys drawing, playing outside, and going shopping with her mom or friends. She’s also an avid synchronized swimmer: she trains three times a week and has already won two gold medals with her team at regional competitions.
The mayor is looking forward to working with her. And Reza is also curious to see what lies ahead for her. Welcoming Sinterklaas together, attending special events, and maybe even joining a polonaise? “Can I do that?” Reza laughs. “We’ll find out soon enough.”
