By Hannah McNamara
Today's youth are taking bold steps to shape the future of Queensland through platforms like the Queensland Youth Parliament, where young leaders aged 15 to 25 tackle some of the most pressing issues facing society today. This program offers a dynamic space for young people to voice their ideas, debate policies and draft bills that could one day influence real legislation.
When she’s not scoring goals on the netball court, 16-year-old Arhamah Haider, a Whitsunday Youth Parliament Member from Mackay, is actively pursuing her passion for creating positive change through politics.
The program involves 93 elected members from across the state, where young parliamentarians meet regularly, forming committees to work on bills over the course of the year. In the lead up to residential week, the bills are then debated and passed in the parliamentary chambers.
"It’s basically a forum for young people aged 15 to 25 to come together and write bills that address real issues in our communities," said Arhamah.
"We spend the whole year writing these bills, and then we get to pass them in Parliament. It's such a cool experience, especially knowing that these ideas could have a real impact on policy someday."
For many, the experience of participating in Youth Parliament is not just about politics but also about personal growth.
Arhamah said, “At first it was really intimidating.
“I was only 15 when I first started out last year – I was the youngest one there - among 20-year-olds, some of them with degrees, and I felt a bit out of place, but once we got started, it was eye-opening to see people from everywhere, of all different ages and everything…It was fantastic.”
Arhamah said she even made valuable friendships along the way despite the relatively competitive nature of the program.
"Some of my best friends are from Youth Parliament, it’s not all competitive, and we all support each other.”
The program also offers the chance to meet influential figures in Queensland’s political landscape, including the Premier and the Leader of the Opposition. This exposure to high-level political discourse helps to inspire and shape the ambitions of future leaders.
Looking to the future, many Youth Parliament members have aspirations that extend beyond their current roles, and the program helps lay the foundation for their future pathways.
“I can’t decide between becoming a barrister or a doctor,” Arhamah laughed, “But whatever I do, I want to be involved in politics and make a difference, maybe even become Minister for Health someday.”
Arhamah Haider, a 16-year-old Whitsunday Youth Parliament Member from Mackay, balances her passion for politics with her love for netball. As part of the Queensland Youth Parliament, she collaborates with peers to draft bills addressing pressing community issues, aiming to make a lasting impact on future legislation. Photos supplied
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