The appointment of a democratically-elected youth council for Horsham – the first of its kind in Victoria – is an incredible opportunity for our municipality’s young people. 

They will represent a cohort of residents aged between 11 and 17 and offer a positive example and influence, while earning an all-important voice at the decision-making table. 

It’s an incredible responsibility and privilege. 

Already, it has taken courage to put themselves forward for consideration and scrutiny as their peers cast a vote. 

The community is strongly behind the seven young men, aged 12 to 16, as they begin their year-long term in office. 

Long have conversations discussed the importance of diverse representation in decision-making – whether at the various levels of government, boards or committees, or in the workplace. 

To have a seat where the action happens. To shine a light and example for others to follow – to be what you can see. To engage, to listen and to act on behalf of others, with educated and informed deliberation. 

The appointment of the Horsham Youth Council has ignited a reinvigorated, and productive, conversation about the importance of diversity – in relation to genders, cultures and life experiences. 

There is little doubt the Youth Council will put their best foot forward and grasp this important opportunity with both hands. 

They will learn valuable skills and become ambassadors for our municipality, and the broader region, no matter what their futures beyond secondary school education entail. 

Participants of a pilot program, they will also shape the opportunity for years to come. 

But the 10 candidates all shared a glaringly similar trait – they are young men. 

Being a teenager is a time of immense change, and experiences and outlook can differ significantly among genders. 

The Youth Council must work hard to engage young women and gender-diverse people, to learn and understand their views in order to represent all young people in their advocacy and projects throughout the year. 

It must also work to inspire and empower candidates to put up their hand for an election in a years’ time, and continue to support new ideas and growth. 

For the betterment of all. 

RELATED: Young leaders paving the way in Horsham mayors program

The entire June 28, 2023 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire June 28, 2023 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!