Deanna Stevens and Eva Pulvirenti appointed Hills Shire youth ambassadors

Two young leaders in the Hills Shire are aiming to make their voices heard, challenging stigmas and promoting inclusivity in their new role as youth ambassadors.

Deanna Stevens (L) and Eva Pulvirenti (R), are the youth ambassadors for the Hills Shire.

Two young Hills students have been elected to act as a voice and advocate for the youth in Sydney’s northwest.

Deanna Stevens, 17, and Eva Pulvirenti, 16, will take on the role of “youth ambassadors” at The Hills Shire Council.

Eva Pulvirenti

Eva has been an active member of the community, serving The Hills Youth Army and volunteering at community events including Youth Week, Australia Day and Clean-Up Australia Day.

Eva said she wished to champion inclusivity across the Hills.

“I want to provide insight on issues important to young people and advocate for their needs and interests,” Eva said.

Eva Pulvirenti, youth ambassador for the Hills Shire.

Eva hopes to encourage safe environments for young people in region and ensure mental health services are accessible to all.

With an interest in slam poetry, she hopes to use her voice to educate and promote awareness around technology and social media usage and safety.

“I’m concerned with young people‘s dependence and addiction to technology,” Eva said.

Having grown up in the Hills, Eva has strong ties.

“I’ve always been passionate in thinking about what I can do for the community to make it safe and inclusive for young people,” she said.

Deanna and Eva will play an active role in the Hills Shire Council.

She said she was inspired by the work councillors and previous youth ambassadors had achieved in the past.

Eva hopes her role will allow her a platform to promote expression and said young people are often not given a voice.

Deanna Stevens

Deanna was elected in the role by her school due to her active involvement in the school and community.

A welfare leader at her school, Deanna said she wanted to challenge and provide a forum for topics such as gender, sexuality and racism.

A keen public speaker, slam poet and conservation activist, Deanna believes positive change can be achieved through campaigns and programs.

“My goal is to challenge social stigmas such as climate action, suicide prevention and inclusivity,” Deanna said.

Deanna Stevens, Hills Shire Youth Ambassador. Picture: Hills Shire Council

Deanna said her role as a welfare leader allowed her to develop and promote mental health initiatives.

She believes “change can be achieved if the root cause of issues are addressed”.

“While mental health is gradually becoming more openly discussed, I’m determined to spark a dialogue that raises awareness of available resources and breaks down the taboos that prevent people from seeking help,” Deanna said.

Deanna was also a member of the social justice team for six years, where she helped sew dresses and clothes for less fortunate children overseas.

‘The joy I feel during the holiday season led me to spend time at local nursing homes, singing carols with the residents and listening to their stories,” Deanna said.

Deanna also performed for the elderly during her time with the Hills Community Concert Band.

The two young ladies will work with council to participate in community events, speak at Council functions, actively participate and give direction to Council‘s volunteer youth group.