Geelong’s junior mayor has encouraged young people who are passionate about their community to nominate for the 2024 City of Greater Geelong Youth Council.
Junior mayor Irene Mulilo, who was elected as leader of the Youth Council in January this year, said the experience was a rewarding one.
“I’ve certainly enjoyed the opportunity to have my voice heard, along with learning more about processes at a local government level,” Junior Mayor Mulilo said.
“It’s important that Council understands what matters to young people within our community and becoming a part of Youth Council is a practical way to achieve that.
“Every member of Youth Council joins from a different background and with different ideas and priorities for the future, so I encourage all young people to consider becoming a part of this exciting opportunity.”
Each year, 12 youth councillors aged between 12 and 17 years old serve their community by acting as a voice for the city’s young people.
Once the Youth Council has been selected, its members elect their own junior mayor and junior deputy mayor.
The Youth Council meets every month to discuss the important issues for young people and advise their senior counterparts.
This year’s Youth Council has focused on issues such as climate change, mental health, diversity and inclusion.
Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan echoed the junior mayor’s call for all interested young people to nominate.
“Youth Councillors are the official ‘youth voice’ from within our community to assist Council in understanding what the priorities are for the region’s youth,” Mayor Sullivan said.
“Being a part of Youth Council also help our region’s young people to learn more about local government while informing and influencing Council decisions.
“We want a diverse Youth Council that’s representative of the entire Greater Geelong community, so we encourage everyone to consider nominating, regardless of previous leadership experience.
“Our youth councillors will be supported by our Youth Development team and have the chance to develop their skills through a range of different learning opportunities.”
Nominations can be made aw geelongaustralia.com.au/youthcouncil and are open until October 20.
