NAPERVILLE (Diya TV) — In a historic first for Naperville, Illinois, Ashfaq Syed has been sworn in as the city’s first Asian America, Indian American and Muslim member of the City Council, marking a significant milestone in the city’s evolving civic landscape.
Syed, a long-time Naperville resident and nonprofit leader, brings a deep background in community service and civic engagement to his new role.
“This moment is not mine alone—it belongs to every resident, every volunteer, and every voter who believes in a vision of transparent, responsible, and community-centered leadership,” Syed said after taking the oath of office. His remarks were reported in multiple local outlets and echoed the values that shaped his campaign and career.
Syed has spent years working to uplift Naperville’s families and strengthen community institutions. He previously served as President of the Naperville Public Library Board and currently holds board positions with Loaves & Fishes Community Services and 360 Youth Services. These nonprofit organizations serve critical roles in the community, offering food assistance, youth support programs, and essential family services.
In his new role on the City Council, Syed emphasized a policy agenda centered on strategic investments, smart growth, and government accountability. “Budgets should reflect our values,” he said. “City government should be as responsive as the people it serves. I will advocate for smarter growth, support small businesses, and invest in services that uplift families and strengthen our neighborhoods.”
During his campaign and now in office, Syed has pledged to focus on fiscal discipline and responsive governance. He said he wants to ensure that city resources are allocated in ways that deliver long-term value and meet the evolving needs of Naperville’s diverse population.
As a council member, Syed will play a key role in shaping the city’s policies on development, infrastructure, and community services—areas he says must align with residents’ priorities. “We need to ensure our city grows thoughtfully, supports the people who live and work here, and remains a place where all families can thrive,” he said.
His appointment marks a moment of pride not only for Syed and his supporters but for a broader community that values representation and inclusion in public service. Naperville, one of the largest cities in Illinois, has grown more diverse in recent decades, and Syed’s election signals a city council more reflective of that demographic shift.
While Syed acknowledges the symbolic significance of his election, he is quick to turn the spotlight back to the community. “This is about all of us,” he said. “The residents who volunteer their time, the organizations that serve, and the voters who believe in building a better Naperville together.”
As he begins his term, Syed says he remains committed to listening closely to constituents and working toward solutions that reflect shared values. “I am honored to serve, and I’m ready to get to work for the people of Naperville.”
