If it we’re solely up to Calgary’s youth, Naheed Nenshi would be the new mayor of Calgary, according to a Youth Can Vote mock election held yesterday.

Elementary, junior high and senior high students across the city cast their ballots and a great majority chose the Purple Revolution at 41 per cent, Barb Higgins at 25 per cent and Ric McIver at 22 per cent.

While Youth Mayor Council member and student Jasmine Kassam, 17, mock voted for Ric McIver, she said Nenshi provided an intelligent and welcoming candidate.

“I think people felt like he really cares what they believe and the students were drawn to him.

He’s very intelligent and was  robust,” she said.

Kassam said the experience was exciting and engaging for the students.

“It gave us a chance for our voices to be heard and an opportunity to learn about the city and the issues and the candidates. I will be ready for the next election when I can vote,” she added.

Youth Central initiative manager Ros Doi said the students enjoyed the experience.

“They were so excited while waiting in line to cast their ballots,” she said.