Two young people from Hull have represented the city at the annual conference of the UK Youth Parliament.
The event at Sussex University in Brighton brought together Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) from across the UK to discuss issues related to young people, as they seek to shape public policy.
It provided an opportunity for MYPs to finalise the subjects that will be debated during their annual sitting within the House of Commons, as part of the process to influence policy at a UK level.
The UK Youth Parliament, established in 1999, is made up of more than 300 young people aged between 11 and 18, who are elected as MYPs to represent the views of their peers.
It was set up to provide opportunities for young people, including those from marginalised communities, to influence the parliamentary process and bring about meaningful change.
The current crop of MYPs are into the second year of their two-year term in office.
Hull was represented at the conference by Emperor-David Ikechukwu, below left, and Precious Machinga, below right.
Emperor-David said: “Engaging, innovative and creative – that’s what I have to say about the weekend in Brighton!
“Seeing young people like me come together to discuss issues regarding their peers gives me hope that our future is secured.
“It was a weekend filled with strong political and empathetic conversations echoing through the walls.”
Precious added: “For me this felt like an elevator lifting me more to other young people’s opinions.”
Hull’s local Young People’s Parliament is funded by Hull City Council.
Its ‘pop-up parliaments’ are held frequently in the community where children and young people are, such as community venues and schools.
An annual meeting is held at the Guildhall where members come together to look at the priorities for children and young people.
Hull City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, Councillor Linda Tock, said: “I’d like to thank Emperor and Precious for representing the city, where I know they are up for the challenge of making sure Hull’s voice is heard.
“The UK Youth Parliament provides a brilliant opportunity for our MYPs from Hull to have a voice in shaping the future and vision for both our city and the UK as a whole.”
