Seven diverse young Canberrans will advise the ACT Government on young people’s aspirations, needs and concerns.
Tayla Davis, Hayley Whatman, Zach Zhao, Jemma Rule, Price Magero, Thomas Menzies Stegbauer, and Madison Barancewicz have joined the ACT Youth Advisory Council.
With the eight existing members, they will facilitate interaction between young people, the ACT Government, and the wider community.
Hayley Whatman said: “As a newly appointed member to the ACT Youth Advisory Council, I am honoured to have the opportunity to further expand on my 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. 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.
“As a new member of the council, I am particularly excited to work alongside like-minded individuals to consult with young people across the ACT and advocate for institutional-level changes that promote social equity for all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances. Together, I am confident that we can create a brighter future for all young people in our community.”
This year, one of the council’s priorities is to host the 2023 ACT Youth Assembly, a platform for young Canberrans to discuss issues that affect them.
Yvette Berry, ACT Minister for Youth Affairs, congratulated 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. “I am particularly excited to see the outcomes from the 2023 ACT Youth Assembly later this year.”
Ms Berry thanked outgoing council members for their commitment and dedication.
“Your contributions to the council have allowed us to progress some of the key priorities under the council’s 2021-22 work plan. Their work has left a positive impact on our local community, and they should be proud of the legacy they leave behind.”
Outgoing co-chair Nic Villiers said: “Having experienced significant disadvantages, adversity, and challenges as a young person, I have learnt many unique and valuable life lessons. I applied for the Youth Advisory Council because I wanted these experiences and lessons to help other young people going through these issues be better supported and have better outcomes than I was able to. 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. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity to affect meaningful change for youth.”
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