Calling for interested young people to join Hamilton Youth Council

Are you a young Hamiltonian keen to get involved in your city and have a say? Are you a leader wanting to make a change and contribute to the community? Would you be willing to speak up on behalf of other young people? Then make sure you get your application in to be a Hamilton City Youth Councillor.

The Hamilton City Youth Council is currently recruiting for interested young people aged between 15-25 years to join their ranks. Youth Council is made up of 15 members who work closely with Hamilton City Council to provide a valuable youth perspective on local issues, make submissions to local, regional and central government and play a role in the development of relevant policies and strategies.

Youth Council runs two main annual events – the FYI (For Youth Involvement) Youth Forum as part of National Leadership Week, and the Recognyz Youth Awards to celebrate the wonderful contributions that young people make to the city. Youth Council is also involved in a range of projects in partnership with other youth service providers and organisations.

Hamilton Youth Council Deputy Chairperson Jason Sebestian says it is a very rewarding group to be part of.

“By being a Youth Councillor we are able to provide a direct insight into youth issues and views to help shape our city. It is great to know our efforts are making a difference to Hamilton now and in the future.
You get the opportunity to have a say and contribute to making Hamilton a better city to live in,” he says.

Hamilton City Councillor Margaret Forsyth says: “Our Youth Council plays an important role in the city by ensuring the views of our young people are heard and factored into decision-making. It is important members are from a diverse range of backgrounds to ensure they best represent the views of our city’s youth. I urge anyone interested to get their applications in.”

Once appointed, members can sit on Hamilton Youth Council for as long as they wish, ideally for a minimum period of a year, up until the age of 25.  Members meet once a month and as required to progress certain projects such as submissions.

Those wanting to apply or seeking additional information can phone 07 838 6665 or email htownyouthcouncil@gmail.com.

More information on Hamilton Youth Council is available on www.hamilton.co.nz/youthcouncil or their Facebook page.