Camden Youth Council member Joanna Kolevris has been selected to attend this year’s NSW Youth Parliament, which will meet in the NSW parliament in Macquarie Street, Sydney, during July 15-20.
The Camden High School student moved with her family to Australia from Greece five years ago.
The NSW Youth Parliament program has been running for 17 years, and gives high school students a chance to debate legislature, pitch creative solutions and be involved in decision making at NSW Parliament.
Ms Kolevris said she was looking forward to representing Camden, and hoped to develop leadership skills and learn more about the parliamentary system.
“I believe it is vital to participate and use every platform available to express your opinion and strive to make this a better place for all,” she said.
“I am most looking forward to talking directly to politicians about the issues I feel need to be discussed and working closely together with my committee to ensure that our voices are being heard.”
The Camden South resident has also been involved in the NSW Western Sydney Youth Advisory Group through NSW Youth Action, and said she wanted to pursue a career in social work and be an ambassador for the United Nations.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“Moving to Australia has meant great opportunities in regard to education and has helped me become more aware of social issues,” she said.[/social_quote]
“It has helped me view the world from a different perspective and has made me even more passionate about creating a positive change in our society.”
Mayor Lara Symkowiak said Miss Kolevris was an example of the outstanding young people in our community that would serve as future leaders.
“Each year this program gives our young people a chance to find their feet in politics, have a say, and understand the intricacies of how our democracy functions,” Cr Symkowiak said.
“Council is always proud to sponsor young people to take part in this program, as it complements our efforts to foster leadership skills, community mindedness and confidence among our young people,” she said.
