Hills youth Ambassador Hayley Irving on COVID-19, uncertainty and climate change
Young people have traditionally been left out of political decision-making. But Hills youth ambassador Hayley Irving wants to change that.
Hills Shire
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Eighteen-year-old Hayley Irving has always wanted to make a difference.
“I’ve always been interested in how society is run and how youth can get involved,” she said.
Ms Irving grew up in Kellyville and is now hoping to give back to her community. Along with Anthony Radic she has been selected to be one of the 2020-2021 youth ambassadors for the Hills Shire.
She hopes to use the position to give young people a stronger voice in the community.
“I think young people really want to get involved and they are not sure how to do that,” she said.
“We are left out of the loop a lot.”
Ms Irving argues the biggest issue facing young people is “uncertainty” which has been exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic.
“Young people are scared about whether they will be able to get a stable job, whether the economy will recover,” she said.
She is currently studying biology at Macquarie University and hopes to one day forge a career in politics.
“I am really passionate about climate change so I do want to see action on that,” she said.
The 12-month role as a youth ambassador appears perfect preparation for the cut and thrust of modern politics.
Hills mayor Michelle Byrne said the role exposes young people to policy, strategy and decisions-making in a council context.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for our future leaders to develop and refine their leadership skills, which will benefit them later in life,” Mayor Byrne said.