Applications for a Youth MP to represent their community

The next Youth Parliament will occur in 2019, with Youth MPs participating in a tenure programme from 1 March to 31 August, including attending a two-day Youth Parliament event in Wellington on 16 and 17 July.  This triennial programme gives young people the opportunity to understand and be a part of the Parliamentary process and connect with their communities.  It will be a significant opportunity for 120 young New Zealanders to gather the views of their peers and bring young peoples' voice to Parliament.

Every Member of Parliament will select a Youth MP to represent their community.  National Party List member Michael Woodhouse is seeking applications from interested students.  He is looking for a young person who is:

• aged 16 - 18 years old (inclusive on 19 October 2018)
  
• active in their community
  
• able to attend Youth Parliament on 16 and 17 July 2019 and commit to the Youth MP tenure from 1 March to 31 August 2019 (training will be offered at the beginning of this tenure)
  
• passionate about youth issues, politics and social change
  
• able to seek the views, opinions and ideas of their peers and represent them at the two-day Youth Parliament 2019 event
  
• be prepared to work within the protocols and behavioural expectations of Youth Parliament 2019 and
  
• be available for an interview during the October school holidays
  

Applicants should write an essay, a video blog or use any kind of creative media to talk about why they are passionate about issues facing young people and our city, and how they would engage with their peers to take their views to Parliament.

Interested students should contact Mr Woodhouse on 4777330 or blueandgold@parliament.govt.nz