Bridges

Activist Jonathan Aibi (Yoni)

Email: hello@gatesheadlibdems.org.uk

Jonathan (Yoni) – Standing Up for Bridges Ward

I’m passionate about the Bridges Ward, honestly it deserves better – better representation, better value for money, and a better future!

I believe in democracy that works for residents, value for the taxpayer, and proper representation for every part of our ward. For too long, we’ve been let down – including by one of our former Labour councillors, now an independent, who hasn’t shown up to work since being elected. That’s simply not good enough. If you choose me, I’ll be there, present and accountable, from day one.

Bridges Ward has a proud history, and I want to see it thrive again. That means:

• Investment and regeneration to breathe life back into our high streets, public spaces, and housing, restoring the sense of pride and vibrancy we once had.
• Championing our youth and youth services, so young people have safe places to meet, activities to take part in, and real opportunities to succeed.
• Protecting and growing spaces for socialising – from community venues to cafés, independent shops, and cultural events – because strong communities need places where people can connect.
• Backing local businesses to strengthen our economy, create jobs, and make our ward a place people want to visit.
• Delivering practical improvements – cleaner streets, better lighting, safer public spaces, and reliable local services.

I’m someone who will work hard, listen to you, and make sure decisions are made with the people of Bridges Ward, not for them without their say. Together, we can bring our community back to its heyday and build a future we can all be proud of.

Activist Luisa Scott

Email: hello@gatesheadlibdems.org.uk

I was born and bred in Gateshead, and I’m standing as a Liberal Democrat candidate for Bridges Ward because I care deeply about the future of our town centre and our community.

I’m a registered nurse with a long career in healthcare, and for the past two years I’ve been based on Gateshead High Street as a local business owner. Alongside my partner, I co-run The Tynesider, investing in a safe, welcoming space that brings people together across generations.

My focus is clear: tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, strengthening community safety, and restoring pride in Gateshead town centre.

I helped set up a volunteer-led town centre group and active community network that works with residents, businesses and police to address issues such as litter, graffiti and anti-social behaviour. This is community politics in action — local people working together to deliver practical change.

I’m also passionate about supporting older residents. Through partnership work with Age UK Gateshead and our Boomers daytime events, we’ve created regular social activities that reduce isolation and bring friendship and connection back into people’s lives.

I joined the Liberal Democrats because I believe in open, honest and transparent local politics. Residents deserve clear communication, accountability and councillors who are visible and accessible.

If elected, I will:

• Prioritise practical action on crime and anti-social behaviour in Bridges Ward
• Strengthen cooperation between residents, police, businesses and the council
• Support responsible High Street regeneration
• Champion activities that improve wellbeing and reduce isolation
• Deliver open, accountable representation

I didn’t wait to be elected to start improving our area, I got involved. I’m not standing to start helping. I’m standing to do more.

Activist Zahra Hakim

Email: hello@gatesheadlibdems.org.uk

Zahra is a committed and community driven leader with a strong track record across public service and the property sector. With a background in public sector delivery, she has developed a deep understanding of the real challenges facing people and communities. She holds a master’s degree, bringing strategic insight, professionalism, and credibility to her work.

Now working in the property and hospitality industry as well as being a business owner, Zahra demonstrates resilience, leadership, and a clear ability to deliver results. She is also a strong problem solver, focused on making things more practical and easier for the community, without overcomplicating matters.

Zahra is passionate about serving her community. She has volunteered at soup kitchens and food banks and has taken a hands on role in  a number of charitable initiatives and community based projects. Her approach is practical, compassionate, and rooted in action.

She is deeply passionate about justice and human rights and is committed to ensuring fairness and dignity for all.

She is a strong advocate for inclusion and accessibility and believes in empowering “people of determination” to thrive. She prefers this term over “disability,” reflecting  focus on ability, potential, and dignity. Zahra  also advocates for greater support for carers , as well as improved understanding and support for SEN individuals in education and the workplace  recognising that current provisions may not be sufficient. She is committed to helping  the elderly community and that they are supported and not left behind in an increasingly challenging digital world.

Deeply committed to protecting both people and place, Zahra is a Patron  to one of the world’s largest and leading scientific research institutions supporting, education,  scientific research by tackling global challenges such as, conservation, biodiversity loss and sustainability, she is equally passionate about animal welfare and the natural world.

She contributes and supports protecting history, especially the protection and restoration of historic buildings, believing they should be preserved and brought back into active community use. She recognises that excessive red tape can act as a barrier, often leading to many buildings being lost to ruin rather than preserved, and supports a more practical approach that removes unnecessary obstacles and enables regeneration. Zahra ia also passionate about  revitalising high streets and town centres. She has contributed to national level, party policy focused on strengthening local economies and preventing community decline.