Young leaders step up to make a difference

Twelve young people from a diverse mix of backgrounds will be the official ‘youth voice’ to council in 2022 as part of the City of Greater Geelong’s fourth Youth Council.

The successful junior leaders aged between 12 and 17 were chosen from more than 100 nominees by members of youth advisory groups in their respective wards.

The Youth Council meets once a month and acts as an official advisory committee to council, with three members representing each of the four wards: Bellarine, Brownbill, Kardinia and Windermere.

During their 12-month term they will provide a youth perspective to council on a range of important issues such as bullying, climate change, inclusion and mental health awareness.

The 2022 Youth Council members are:

Bellarine Ward – Indiana Roberts, 14; Genaya Rowbottom, 17; Timothe Garnier, 12
Brownbill Ward – Tahlia Baronessa, 17; Imogen O’Shannessy,14; Bailey Strahan, 14
Kardinia Ward – Isobel Rose, 13; Sarah Tolan, 13; Ashlin Bobby, 14
Windermere Ward – Charlee Hide, 13; Angelle Mackay, 15; Adrian Wyres, 15.

Deputy mayor Trent Sullivan congratulated the new members while acknowledging the vital role the Youth Council plays in representing the views of Geelong’s young people.

“The youth of Geelong have shown remarkable resilience during the pandemic, and now more than ever, we need to hear their perspectives on the issues that are important to them,” Cr Sullivan said.

“The 12 youth councillors are an impressive group and represent a diverse mix of backgrounds. We know they’ll do an outstanding job of representing their peers.”

The young members will meet for the first time on Monday, February 7, to set their key priorities for the year ahead and to vote in a junior mayor and junior deputy mayor.

They will be part of the Councillor Connect Mentoring Program which involves working closely councillors in their respective wards, leading to improved leadership skills, a better understanding of local government and greater confidence in the young people participating.

Youth Council will report to council quarterly on activities undertaken by the advisory committee.