Seven young people from around the Canberra community are to bring their diverse life experiences and voices to the ACT Youth Advisory Council this year to raise the awareness of their aspirations, needs and concerns of many young people in the ACT.
The seven new members: Tayla Davis, Hayley Whatman, Zach Zhao, Jemma Rule, Price Magero, Thomas Menzies Stegbauer and Madison Barancewicz, will join the eight existing members of the Council (ACTYAC) and help facilitate interaction between young people, the ACT Government and the wider community.
According to the Minister for Youth Affairs, Yvette Berry, the ACTYAC provides young people with the opportunity to take a leading role in participation and consultation activities on issues that affect their lives.
“This year, one of the key priorities of Council will be to deliver the 2023 ACT Youth Assembly, which is a platform for young Canberrans to have their voices heard and explore issues that impact young people,” Ms Berry said.
“I was pleased to congratulate the new members at the inaugural meeting of the new council last week. They will be excellent champions for young Canberrans, and I look forward to being guided by their diverse perspectives and expertise,” she said.
Ms Berry also thanked the outgoing Council members for their commitment and dedication shown to the Council and young Canberrans.
“Your contributions to the Council have allowed us to progress some of the key priorities under the Council’s 2021-22 work plan,” she said.
“Their work has left a positive impact on our local community and they should be proud of the legacy they leave behind.”
Incoming member of the Council, Hayley Whatman said he was honoured to have the opportunity to expand his commitment to the betterment of outcomes for all young people across the ACT.
“As a young person myself who has faced many adverse life experiences, I understand firsthand the impact that inequity and disadvantage can have on an individual’s quality of life,” Mr Whatman said.
“As such, my desire to apply for the ACT Youth Advisory Council stems from my lived experiences, resilience, passion, and my greater purpose: advocating for the unheard voices of young people in pursuit of social justice” he said.
Outgoing Co-Chair, Nic Villiers said having experienced significant disadvantages, adversity, and challenges as a young person, he had learnt many unique and valuable life lessons.
“Through the Council, I have worked collaboratively to deliver incredible outcomes to improve the lives of young people I never could have on my own,” Mr Villiers said.
“I am so grateful to have had this opportunity to affect meaningful change for youth.”
