Calling aspiring young politicians: applications are now open for young people between 15 and 25 years to join the 2014 YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament.
The youth parliament is a great opportunity for young people to stand up and take part in the democratic process.
The YMCA Youth Parliament is a wonderful program that gives young people valuable skills and experience to help prepare them to become future community leaders.
The practical program develops debating, negotiating and leadership skills and participants then put these skills to the test at Parliament House in Brisbane in September.
Youth Members get an insider’s look at what it’s like to be a parliamentarian, learning about parliamentary rules, writing bills and debating them in the parliamentary chamber.
I’ve had the privilege of being involved in previous youth parliaments and it’s great to see firsthand the enthusiasm and excitement of all the young people who get involved.
The YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, in its 19th year, is made up of representatives from the 89 state electorates with an additional four positions for Indigenous electorates.
More than 1500 young people have participated in the program and have gone on to fulfil varied roles in the community including members of parliament, doctors, miners, lawyers and army personnel.
I call on young Queenslanders who want to get involved to apply for this rewarding experience.
Teachers, parents and community representatives are also encouraged to support young people who they think would be great candidates to apply.
Applications close at 5pm on Friday 21 February 2014. More information can be found at the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament website, www.ymcaqyp.org