Meet the candidate: Mika Berculean

On Thursday, 7 May, Ipswich residents will head to the polls for two local elections on the same day — one for Ipswich Borough Council, the other for Suffolk County Council. Mika Berculean is standing for Labour in both contests: in Stoke Park, contesting one of 16 borough council seats up for election across Ipswich, and in Belstead Hills, contesting one of 12 county council divisions in the town.

As an apolitical publication, we sent every candidate standing in the town the same five questions, and we're publishing every response in full, without editing, so that residents can hear directly from the people asking for their vote. No candidate receives more or less prominence than any other. This is what Mika told us.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Mika Berculean, and I am standing in Stoke Park and Belstead Hills.

I come from a hardworking background, and as a single mum, life has not always been easy. That means I understand the pressures many people and families are under, and how important it is to feel supported and taken seriously.

I'm standing because I want to be a practical, approachable representative for local people; someone who is visible, listens properly, and works hard on the issues that affect everyday life.

What are the three biggest issues facing your ward, and what would you do about them?

For me, it comes back to the basics.

First, the look and feel of the area. Residents have told me on the doorstep that they want the basics done right and done well; clean streets, bins collected on time, and neighbourhoods they can feel proud of. Litter and the general condition of an area really matter, and I would make sure those concerns are raised and followed through properly.

Second, tackling anti-social behaviour and improving community safety. People want to feel safe where they live. I would work with the right services and agencies to make sure concerns are taken seriously and that residents are not left feeling ignored.

Third, supporting residents with the cost of living and everyday pressures. Many households are under real strain, and I understand that personally. I would make sure residents know where to turn for support and push for practical help where it is needed.

These issues shape everyday life.

What are your views on the changes happening in Suffolk, including local government reorganisation?

There are big changes happening in Suffolk, and they need to be handled responsibly.

For me, the most important thing is making sure local residents are properly involved in the process. Changes should be shaped with communities, not imposed on them.

The £20m Pride in Place funding announced for Stoke Park is a real opportunity, and we now need to make sure it delivers real benefits for residents. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring meaningful change to the area.

A councillor's job is to make sure local voices are heard and that decisions reflect what residents actually need and want, not just what looks good on paper.

What is your most significant achievement?

My biggest achievement is the way I have built my life while supporting others.

I am a single mum, raising my children while continuing to work, study, and give back to the community. Alongside this, I completed a business degree and continue to study leadership, which reflects my commitment to improving myself and what I can offer others.

I have volunteered for several years with a women's refuge, supporting children and helping to make sure they feel safe, cared for, and protected. I also serve as an Army Cadet Force sergeant instructor in Ipswich, helping young people build confidence and discipline.

Through my work in security, education, and volunteering, I have worked closely with people from all backgrounds, including those facing difficult situations. That has given me a strong understanding of responsibility, safeguarding, and how to support people properly.

How will you be accessible to residents if elected?

I want residents in Stoke Park and Belstead Hills to feel comfortable approaching me and to know they will be taken seriously.

If elected, I will stay visible in the community, attend local events, and make sure people know how to contact me. I want to be approachable, present, and focused on the everyday issues that matter most to local people.

Being a councillor is about showing up, working hard, and helping make the area a place people can feel proud of.

Want to hear from the other candidates standing in Stoke Park and Belstead Hills — and across the rest of Ipswich? We're publishing every response we receive in full.

Polling stations open at 07:00 and close at 22:00 on Thursday, 7 May, with results expected on Friday, 8 May. To vote in person you will need a valid form of photo ID — if you don't have one, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate at gov.uk before 17:00 on Tuesday, 28 April. The last day to register to vote is Monday, 20 April. For a full breakdown of every candidate standing across Ipswich and all the key deadlines, read our complete guide to the May elections.

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