New Welsh Youth Parliament elected

Senedd Cymru

The results have been announced in the Welsh Youth Parliament elections.

60 new members have been chosen from over 450 candidates across Wales, representing both local constituencies and partner organisations.

Daniel Vlad is the new WYP member for the Vale of Glamorgan, after topping the poll in a field of 19 candidates.

His key issues are higher education standards, education of mental health and climate action.

In his candidate statement, Daniel said: "I’ve seen how politics often overlooks young people's needs, so I am fighting to change this."

"The standard of education is not good enough. My aim is to get more investment in education and technology. To make a safe and fun learning environment for a future where we all get the best education."

"Mental health is vital for our wellbeing, yet we are not teaching it enough in schools. I will push for mental health to be taught more in school, and for teachers to be trained in how to better support people who struggle with mental health."

"I know how worried we are about the future of the planet. So shouldn’t we act before it’s too late? I will campaign for planting more trees and improving biodiversity so we can enjoy our planet for years to come."

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The new member for Cardiff South and Penarth is Grace Oluwafemi Odarasimi, whose key focus is on education, mental health issues and food.

She said: "I am currently studying law, politics, and French at St David’s Catholic College, where I have developed strong analytical abilities and a deep commitment to my studies."

"Coming from a Nigerian heritage, I draw inspiration from my culture and my family’s values to shape my vision for change. My critical thinking skills and passion for addressing complex issues drive my determination to advocate for meaningful progress."

"As the elected class governor in politics, I understand the weight of responsibility that comes with leadership. This role has deepened my desire to represent young voices and motivated me to join the youth parliament as a catalyst for positive change."

Grace saw off competition from ten other candidates in her constituency.

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Tŷ Hafan and Tŷ Gobaith, the two children's hospices in Wales, will be represented by Emily Williams from Benllech, Anglesey.

The 16 year-old has a younger brother who was diagnosed with a brain condition shortly after he was born and has been visiting the North Wales hospice in Conwy for respite care since he was a baby.

Emily said: "I struggled a lot during the Covid pandemic, partly due to growing up with Thomas and how different my childhood was to other people's."

"My parents have always said that I'm firm in my beliefs so when I saw this opportunity I saw it as the perfect chance for me to share mine and many other people's stories while also making a meaningful difference."

The hospices' reserve member will be Tal Skone, a 13 year-old pupil at Ysgol Bro Morgannwg who chairs the youth board at Tŷ Hafan.

He also has a brother who uses a wheelchair and accesses services at the Sully hospice.

Tai, who finished runner-up in the election, said: "I want to help families who struggle with access in everyday life. My brother uses a wheelchair which helps me to understand some of the challenges faced by families who struggle with accessibility."

"As a family, we often miss out on so many fun trips and activities. We have to plan in advance just to make sure my brother is safe, and that isn't fair to him or to us." 

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The 60 newly elected members will serve two-year terms, representing the views of young people to the highest level of Welsh decision makers.

They will discuss their priorities in regional meetings in the New Year before staging their first face-to-face meeting in the Senedd in February.

The second parliament, held from 2021-2023, chose to prioritise the school curriculum, mental health and wellbeing, and the climate.

Llywydd of the Senedd, Elin Jones, said: "The number of people who have taken part in this election shows the commitment of young people, parents, educators, and the wider sector towards developing the Youth Parliament."

"The influence of the two previous Youth Parliament terms is significant, and has made a great impression on all of us - members, government ministers and the people of Wales."

"I'm sure the new members will inspire and act with the same energy and spirit, ensuring that their peers see the relevance of the Youth Parliament and contributing to the work of the Parliament."

Do you have a story to share? Email News@broradio.fm 

 

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