Youth Council Seeks New Members

Are you keen to be part of a lively group of young people who have a say on issues affecting youth in our city?

We're looking for enthusiastic young Wellingtonians aged between 12 and 24 to join the Youth Council for this year - with vacancies especially for girls aged 13 - 16, as well as young people of both sexes from a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds.

The Youth Council provides advice to City Councillors on issues affecting young people in Wellington.
This includes advice on policy and planning for services and infrastructure in the city, and their impact on young people, as well as promoting and encouraging young people to get involved in decision-making.
Zoe Doole and Jack Marshall both talk enthusiastically about being on the Youth Council. At age 24, Zoe has now finished her term.

"Being on the Youth Council changed my attitude to the City Council and it made me realise that you can have a say on a whole range of interesting issues. It's also given me confidence and experience in leading teams and meetings."

Jack has been a Youth Council member since he was 13. Now aged 18, he says the experience has helped him to grow as an individual, and he's developed skills and confidence through meeting all kinds of people.

Both Jack and Zoe believe that City Councillors are now more aware of the youth voice and their point of view.

This year the Youth Council will focus on job opportunities for young people and what employers need.

There's also a project being led by Jack to help young people living in flats to be better prepared for emergencies such as a major earthquake.

"We'll be talking to university students to find out the best way of getting the message out, and working closely with the Wellington Regional Emergency Management Office," he says.

Councillor Simon Marsh, Portfolio Leader for the Youth Council, says it has been very effective at reminding City Councillors of the youth perspective on a range of issues.

"These young adults offer the City Council a fresh view on issues that will affect them now and into their future, which is crucial because these guys are the future."

Applications close on Monday 11 February - to find out more, see:

Youth Council