NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR YMCA QUEENSLAND YOUTH PARLIAMENT

Young people from the Sunshine Coast who want to make their voices heard and empower their communities can now apply to participate in the 2022 YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament.

In its 27th year, the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament offers Queenslanders aged 15 to 25 the opportunity to speak up for their communities and learn first-hand about parliamentary processes.

Every year, the program brings together 93 young people, representing each electorate in Queensland.

Rob Skelton MP, Member for Nicklin said the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament offered a platform for young people across the state to have a say about important issues facing their communities, connect with their peers and learn about our democracy.

“Youth Parliament has a strong history of empowering young people to express their views and take up challenges to become leaders of the future,” he said.

“I encourage young people to nominate for this program as it provides an opportunity to build their leadership skills and learn about influencing change.”

Program participants will meet in Brisbane in April 2022 to form legislative portfolios and discuss ideas, and again in September for a residential program and the opportunity to debate their bills at Parliament House.

Between April and September, members of each portfolio will collaborate to write their bills, as well as design and implement community action plans.

Participants in Years 11 and 12 are also eligible to receive one point towards their Queensland Certificate of Education upon the completion of their term as a Youth Member, as the program is accredited by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority.

Mr Skelton praised YMCA Brisbane for continuing to successfully steer the landmark youth program.

“It is a testament to YMCA Brisbane’s commitment that the program continues to challenge young people and provide an opportunity for them to share their ideas of change with the government,” he said.

The Queensland Government provides annual funding to YMCA Brisbane to run the program.

Nominations open today (31 January) and will close on Sunday 20 February 2022.

For more information about the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, email qypcoordinator@ymcabrisbane.org or go to www.ymcaqyp.org.au.