The Nationals’ Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, has described this year’s YMCA Youth Parliament recently held as “inspiring”.
The annual event held by YMCA in the Victoria Parliament, provides a unique opportunity for young Victorians, aged between 16 and 26, to stand up and be heard.
“I recently had the opportunity to chair a session during this year’s Youth Parliament, and it was incredibly inspiring to hear the voices of young Victorians right across the state.
“This is a unique opportunity for more than 120 participants to come into Parliament and to experience firsthand, the running of Parliament as well as the preparation and research required to put forward their debates and other contributions.
“But also, to network with mentors, Members of Parliament and their peers”, Ms O’Keeffe said.
Since its first edition in 1987, the Victorian Youth Parliament has influenced over 60 pieces of legislation that are now laws of Victoria.
Ms O’Keeffe said it is incredibly important that our youth of today understand that they can make a different and there are many ways that they can do that.
“It was also great having Safa Zahir join me at Youth Parliament. Safa was recently appointed as my Youth Advisor and Youth Engagement Officer and is in Year 11 at Greater Shepparton Secondary College.”
Mr Zahir said it was wonderful to attend Youth Parliament, and it was a very inspiring and meaningful experience.
“I had the chance to listen to many of the Youth Parliamentarians speak about important issues facing young people today.”
“One of my favourite parts of the visit was seeing the Parliament Library. I really enjoyed spending time there and learning more about Victoria’s history and government.
“I am very excited to have the opportunity to work with Kim and her team.”
