Party politics: Town Hall throws celebration for ‘The Voice’ winner Jermain Jackman

Inspiration: Jermain Jackman, winner of ‘The Voice’ and Ed Miliband, Leader of the Labour Party. Photograph: Hackney Citizen

The winner of The Voice, Hackney’s very own Jermain Jackman, enjoyed a Town Hall reception in his honour on Sunday, with Labour leader Ed Miliband among those who gathered to congratulate him.

The 19 year-old, who won the talent show in April, was welcomed by the outgoing Hackney Speaker Cllr Michael Desmond, along with friends, family and Labour Party dignitaries.

As well as being a promising vocalist inspired by Luther Vandross and Pavarotti, Jermaine Jackman is the Labour Party Youth Coordinator for Hackney North and Stoke Newington.

At the event, the future star said: “I hate when people say I can’t do music and politics, ‘Yes I Can!’.

“The media needs to focus on productive young people. This will send out a positive message and encourages others to do the same.”

Mr Jackman thanked Labour Party leader, Ed Miliband, and MP Diane Abbott for being inspirational role models in his political life, specifically alluding to a school visit from the latter in his childhood.

Ed Miliband was at the front of the queue to shower praise on the Hackney singer: “Jermain is an incredible talent showing what so many other people in Hackney can do. He is a credit to the community. We think you’re great and can do great things.”

Meanwhile, Kanya King, founder of the MOBO Awards described him as a “future party leader.”

Hackney Speaker Cllr Michael Desmond, said: “Anyone can do something negative that is detrimental to the community, but Jermain has made a difference and it has been positive.

“Supporting the local people and the community Jermain has shown commitment to democracy and politics and of course great talent.”

Other guests included actor Rudolf Walker, vocal coaches Ali Tennant and Jay Henry, The Voice contestant Emily Adams, Deputy Speaker of Hackney Cllr Antoinette Bramble and retired Police Superintendent Leroy Logan.