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Phoebe Scarsbrook

Phoebe Scarsbrook —

I had the privilege of being selected as Youth MP at the end of last year representing National MP Andrew Falloon and the Rangitata Electorate.

I had the privilege of being selected as Youth MP at the end of last year representing National MP Andrew Falloon and the Rangitata Electorate. On the 15th - 17th of July I was up in Wellington at the 2019 two day Youth Parliament Event. This event was an opportunity for all of the Youth MP’s from across New Zealand to get together, collaborate, inspire and learn from each other. I was fortunate enough to work with 119 of New Zealand’s most courageous, motivating & inspiring young people from whom I have learnt so much.

Throughout the two-day event, I was a part of the Education and Workforce Select Committee, where we discussed diversity within education and enabling better teaching methods to accommodate all students. This was a group of 12 Youth MP’s closely discussing ways in which we can make something better. We had three submissions from members of the public to consider and we then created a list of recommendations for the Government. We also had Question Time and then the Legislative Debate, which we were required to vote on as well. Finally, on the last day, we had the General Debate. I took part in the General Debate as I wanted to be able to speak on something I am passionate about. I gave a three-minute speech on feminism. It is something I am passionate about and I knew that with the voice I had I needed to use it on something that I believed was important. Once I had concluded my speech I was acknowledged with a standing ovation by my fellow Youth MP’s and it was a feeling I will never forget. It was such a daunting experience, but completely worthwhile.

The amount of support I have received since delivering my speech has been phenomenal. It is remarkable the number of people who have taken time out of their day to watch my speech and tell me they liked it. Even getting MP’s tweeting about it was mind-boggling to me. Hearing that people were some way influenced by it, whether they related to it, or it gave them hope for the future is something which still now is staggering to me. I was lucky enough to meet some senior politicians such as; James Shaw, Chlöe Swarbrick, Simon Bridges and David Seymour. Being able to hear Jacinda Ardern speak in person and talk with the Governor-General, Dame Patsy Reddy is something I will always be thankful for.

The experience not only gave me new friends and connections all across Aotearoa but so much more respect for my peers and the youth of our country. I have learnt so much and I feel now more than ever before inspired to make a change and a difference. Young people are so valuable, we are the future and if you ask me, I think the future is in pretty good hands.

  • Phoebe Scarsbrook