Born in Sudan and arriving in Australia as a refugee in the early 2000s, Semra becomes the first Sudanese-born mayor in Victoria. The first term councillor defeated councillor Pradeep Tiwari by four votes to one.
As mayor, Semra says has many plans for the city of Maribyrong and its people -
“Over the coming term, we’ll keep pushing forward on what our community has said matters most, a thriving and future-ready Footscray, better mental health and wellbeing supports, cleaner air and stronger environmental outcomes, safer streets, improved transport, and the community infrastructure our growing population deserves.
Before becoming mayor, Semra served as a Maribyrnong City Councillor. In this role, he was recognised as the 2025 Young Victorian of the Year by the Victoria Day Council and received the Spotlight Award at the Amari Gala.
In addition, Semra is a key figure at Endeavour Youth Australia (EYA), a youth organisation dedicated to identifying and nurturing the next generation of leaders across Australia’s diverse communities.
Proud of his Sudanese roots, Semra has been an active member of the Sudanese community in Australia, attending and leading several anti-war Sudanese protests, where he has also delivered speeches.