Youth Parliament Team

What motivated you to apply for the YMCA Youth Parliament program?

When I first heard about the program through my sister, I was initially intrigued, I was only 14 at the time so I wasn't able to apply however having the opportunity to be such a different environment from Mildura, with like-minded individual and discussing topics that are not only important to the youth demographic- but are important to me is what motivated me to apply for the position. 

Being part of the program, what skills did you gain from the program?

The Youth Parliament program is far more than anything has ever offered and even pushed me. Being able to speak in front of such a large audience in a room such a parliament taught me a lot more than just getting over nerves. It built on skills of looking through another's perspective, it helped me to think on my feet, to speak up for when I wanted my voice to be not just heard- but known. That's what the program offered, to build on being as confident and considerate towards everything- not just debating. 

How has the program supported your future goals?

This program gave me the opportunity to meet MP's that align with my values, but also what plans I have for my future. To be able to connect with these people has not only assured me that my aspiration of someday taking up politics is possible- even with doing medicine first: but that's it's achievable in this lifetime and that people before me have done it and succeeded.

What motivated you to apply for the YMCA Youth Parliament program?
I applied because I have a genuine passion for community, policy and advocacy. I wanted to better understand how legislation is developed and have the opportunity to contribute to conversations that create meaningful change for young people and our communities.

Being part of the program, what skills did you gain from the program?
The program gave me a much greater understanding of how a Bill is developed, debated and passed through Parliament. It also strengthened my public speaking, teamwork and confidence, particularly through presenting and successfully delivering our Bill in Parliament.

How has the program supported your future goals?
The experience gave me greater perspective and reinforced that I am on the right path. It aligned closely with my career aspirations in advocacy, policy and creating positive change, while also giving me the confidence to continue pursuing opportunities where I can make a meaningful impact.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience with the program?
Youth Parliament was a truly surreal and unforgettable experience. Being surrounded by passionate young people from across Victoria, many of whom I genuinely believe will one day be sitting in parliamentary chambers making decisions for our state, it was incredibly inspiring. The friendships and connections I made will stay with me for a lifetime.

What motivated you to apply for the YMCA Youth Parliament program?

I've always had a passion for current affairs and had a few friends who participated in the program last year who encouraged me to go through with the program and I'm so glad they did.

Being part of the program, what skills did you gain from the program?

I learnt so much about teamwork, public speaking, how to debate, formal environments, and overall I learnt so much about myself and others that I wouldn't have learnt if I hadn't gone out of my comfort zone and participated in something so unique. 

How has the program supported with your future goals?

Honestly, the program taught me how to vote, where I can go in the future even if it isn't politics centered, and has taught me how our political system functions in not only Victoria, but Australia, which is so important to my future and the futures of many young people. 

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience with the program?

Everything ran extremely well and was so useful. All of the support provided was exceptional and the mentor meetings were extremely helpful for myself and others. 

What motivated you to apply for the YMCA Youth Parliament program?

I was passionate about youth advocacy and I wanted to explore a new journey of advocating through this platform and being heard as a youth not only in the community but in state.

Being part of the program, what skills did you gain from the program?

I think I learnt many skills and lessons which couldn’t be even expressed in words. I gained back my confidence in public speaking and learning how to work as a team and also many debating skills through this journey which was not just limited till the program but would be always with me lifelong. 

How has the program supported with your future goals?

I think I got clear about myself and my goals and who really, I am and want to be and what updates I need in myself because some changes don’t impact selves but also community. I would always love to advocate for amazing youths and will continue this passion in future as well. 

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience with the program?

It was an amazing and unforgettable journey I learnt many lessons and skills through this program which would be lifelong with me. I didn’t realise how quickly the time passed because every single passing time was a memory and a lesson. It was a program filled with amazing passionate youths who were concerned about their community issues and wanted to stand for youth voice. It was a platform where everyone belonged and supported.