Fri, Sep 17, 2021 12:13 PM

Hunt on for youth MP

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Jonty Dine

At just 16-years-old, Esther Walters was given the opportunity to address the country’s future leaders inside its most renowned building.

Ester was selected as the Nelson Youth MP for 2019 to work alongside the recently retired political veteran Nick Smith.

Among her many duties as a youth MP, Esther was also given the chance to speak in Parliament.

“It was definitely nerve racking as it was televised too, so it was like nothing I’d experienced before.”

Current Nelson MP Rachel Boyack is calling for applications for a Youth MP to represent the Nelson Electorate in New Zealand’s Youth Parliament in 2022.

“This is a really great opportunity for our young people to learn first-hand about our democracy, influence government decision-making, and have their voices heard,” Rachel says.

A summit of youth MPs will see up to 120 young New Zealanders gather the views of their peers and bring young peoples’ voice to Parliament.

Esther says she applied for the position because she had a real sense for youth justice and was heavily involved in youth projects at school.

“It was amazing to meet other rangatahi with a heart for social change and to be exposed to an opportunity like that was quite eye-opening. It was a privilege to have my voice heard.”

Esther says she will carry the lessons from her time as youth MP into all future endeavours.

“The skills I learnt, and ideas have served me so well.

Ester is currently at Canterbury University doing a double degree in law and criminal justice.

She strongly encourages local youth to put their names forward for the “privileged and prestigious” opportunity.

“We are in a climate where young people are hungry to make a change.  It was a great way to interact with the community being in that role and to see how politics runs in a deeper sense.”

Applicants will need to make a submission highlighting an issue that affects the youth of Nelson, the youth of Aotearoa or globally, and their ideas for addressing the issue.

The submission can be in the form of an essay, a recorded speech, a video or a creative contribution, such as an artwork or song.

Rachel is hoping that a range of voices will step forward.

“Like New Zealand Parliament, Youth Parliament will benefit from a range of voices, so I encourage young people with diverse backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply.”

Rachel says Youth Parliament is a fantastic way for young New Zealanders to deepen their understanding of politics and the democratic process.

“I’m really looking forward to hearing from a range of young people in Nelson and working with the successful candidate.”

Esther’s advice to those applying is to simply be yourself.

“Authenticity is key, if you have a passion Rachel will see that.”

Applicants can find out more information about the selection process and send submissions to nelson@parliament.govt.nz.

Nelson App is owned by Top South Media. a locally owned media company.