Young leaders to the fore during Youth Forum

The leader of Christchurch’s Student Army and a young Hamilton woman who helps Iraqi children rebuild their lives are the two keynote speakers for Hamilton’s FYI Youth Forum later this month.

The third annual FYI (For Youth Involvement) Youth Forum will be held at the Wintec Hub on June 27, and is part of National Leadership Week 2012. The event is supported by the Ministry of Youth Development.

Councillor Margaret Forsyth, who works closely with Hamilton Youth Council, says speakers Assil Russell (Recognyz Youth Awards 2011 Supreme Winner) and Sam Johnson (Young New Zealander of the Year and leader of the Christchurch Student Army) will offer their views on leadership and discuss their various projects.

“Assil and Sam are inspirational young people. Through their work they’ve demonstrated the skills and intellect leaders must display, and it’s great to have them back in the city to speak to their generation,” Cr Forsyth says.

Hamilton Youth Council Chair Logan Reynolds says the Youth Forum is open to anyone aged between 15 and 25, and will include the popular Great Debate.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for young Hamiltonians to learn about different types of leadership, be engaged with Council and have fun. I’m also looking forward to locking horns again with Cr Forsyth, Mayor Julie Hardaker and Deputy Mayor Gordon Chesterman in the Great Debate.”

Register online here or contact Hannah Banks on 07 838 6665 or at hannah.banks@hcc.govt.nz for a registration form.