Kiya proud to stand up for youth

Kiya Gray has become one of 59 inspirational young people selected to the Y WA’s Youth Parliament program.

Kiya, 18, from Carey Park, pictured right in main image, will represent the Collie-Preston electorate in the parliament, a program that provides young West Australian’s the opportunity to engage in a once in a lifetime political leadership experience.

“As a Noongar women from Saltwater Country (Wadandi Country) it is important to me that youth have a voice,” she said.

“In my experience not all youth get the opportunity or support like others do, due to factors like financial problems, unstable homes, or parents/ guardians who don’t support them.

“Youth should have a chance and a voice to stand up for what they believe in because youth matter.

“I believe youth having a voice builds a strong community and I want youth to believe that they have a chance to be heard.”

The four-month non-partisan leadership and civic engagement program aims to educate, empower and encourage young people to take an active role in their community by contributing the views and recommendations of changes they want to see at a state level.

Participants were selected through an application form and then surveyed to determine the most suitable candidates.

The young leaders have already met to discuss the training they will receive which will include three full day training workshops as well as online meetings as they draft, debate, and advocate for mock youth-focused legislation.

Kiya said she hopes to learn how parliament works and to make some friends along the way, “as I do hope to stay connected with some of these amazing people”.

“I don’t particularly have a specific area in government I like. I enjoy all of it and learning each area. I am a person who likes to learn about different parts of government.”

Throughout the program, participants act as “youth members”, representing a state electorate in parliament. The program will culminate in members attending Parliament House next month to participate in a live debate in the chamber.

Upon completion of the program, all bills are presented to Government and Opposition Members, the Governor of Western Australia, the Lord Mayor of Perth, and the WA Department for Communities for review and consideration.

“The Y WA Youth Parliament program, now in its 30th year, offers young people an insight into the workings of government and policy development. CEO of the Y WA Dr Tim McDonald said.

“Our intentions are always based around empowerment and giving young people a voice and this program is truly representative of the views and concerns of the state’s next generation of community leaders.”

Over the past 30 years the voice of Youth Parliament has on many occasions been ahead of the State Government law making, with many of the bills presented by the Y WA Youth Parliament being passed as law.

* Image: Tegan Taudivani