A Conservative councillor who overcame a ”challenging” time as a young carer has been named one of the UK’s most exceptional young people aged under 30.
Seb James, 28, features in The Sunday Times Young Power List 2026 among 30 other people including chart-topping musicians, world class athletes, rising political figures, entrepreneurs and cultural stars.
Cllr James’s entry states that he overcame a “challenging upbringing as a young carer” before becoming a Worcestershire County Councillor.
A few months after his election win, he was named the party’s New Councillor of the Year for his local campaigning work.
He also appeared in Gogglebox with mum Elaine, with the pair joining the Channel 4 show between 2023 and 2024.
In their introduction, Elaine revealed that her son used to call her “Wonderwoman” when he was little and they went to Comic-Con events together.
He said: “It was a real shock to be approached by The Sunday Times to be included in the Young Power List.
“The nomination focused on my work getting young people involved in politics.
Seb James won praise for encouraging young people to get into politics (Image: Supplied)
“Putting party politics aside, it is always amazing to see the increased numbers of under-30s putting themselves up for election. It gets harder and harder to stand for politics, with political debate often becoming personal.
“However, it is important we have younger people involved, to make sure we have a wider variety of experiences, views and backgrounds.
“Politics is tough to get into, with reliance on a really small circle of close friends to keep you going when things get tough.
“However, I hope politics is becoming more accessible and this is something I’ve strived for in my work with young people.”
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Who else is included?
The list also includes multiple Brit Award-winner Raye, 28, Lionesses footballer Alessia Russo, 27, Reform council leader George Finch, 19, and Britain’s youngest ever Formula 1 driver Arvid Lindblad, 18.
The youngest person is actor Lox Pratt, 14, from Cornwall, who recently starred in the BBC adaptation of Lord of the Flies.
Sunday Times commissioning editor Hannah Swerling said: “The rules of success are being rewritten by a new generation of British talent.
“Our Young Power List winners are fighting for social change, building thriving businesses, breaking sporting records and lighting up the world stage.
“All 30 are at the forefront of a new era of British excellence.
“Read exclusive interviews with them all and prepare to be inspired.”
