SDLP councillor Paul McCusker plans to use his forthcoming year as Deputy Mayor of Belfast to "give a voice" to those in society who feel marginalised.
The 34-year-old said he was "absolutely delighted" to be taking on the new role.
The Ardoyne man is well known in the city through his high profile work with several organisations.
An auxillary nurse in the Belfast Trust, he is also a co-founder of St Patrick's Soup Kitchen and established Homeless Aware.
"For me, it is about giving those people who often feel marginalised in the city, a voice. Those who are homeless, suffering addiction, those with mental health issues," he said.
"Part of my year will be about how the city responds to poverty and assists people out of poverty."
