Madora Bay resident Ella Taylor, 15, is one of 59 students taking part in the 2017 YMCA Youth Parliament program, which provides young people with opportunities to develop leadership skills and learn about the political process.
Ella said she chose to take part in the youth parliament because it gave young people a chance to be seen and heard.
“I decided to apply for youth parliament because it sounded like an interesting experience to get involved in, and it gave us a chance to get our voices heard and represent young people in WA,” she said.
The event takes place at Point Walter Recreation Centre and Parliament House, and allows young people to experience parliament while developing leadership skills, making new friends and growing a network of like-minded people who care about the issues young people are facing.
The 15-year-old said the biggest challenges for young people in Western Australia were climate change and employment.
“With the growing boom in technology I think that we should have a wider range of subjects and learning opportunities so that we are prepared for the future jobs in that area,” Ella said.
YMCA WA chief executive Ross Kyrwood said this year’s participants would gain a lot of experience from youth parliament.
“Youth parliament embodies our belief in the power of inspired young people,” he said.
“This experience will allow young people to voice their opinions on issues that are important to them.
“Participants are supported by past participants who volunteer on the leadership taskforce team, YMCA WA staff and partner organisations for each bill they are presenting at parliament.”
The program was financially supported by the Department of Local Government and Community Services and runs from July 2-6.
