Published on Tuesday 01 March 2022
Young people in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole will once again benefit from representation at a local and national level after electing their new Members of the UK Youth Parliament with a record turnout.
Following a month on the campaign trail, two Members of Youth Parliament (MYP) and two deputies were selected from the nominees that stood across the area.
These successful candidates will influence and inform the decisions that affect their lives, contribute to positive changes in their communities and make a real difference to the young people in the BCP area that they now represent. MYPs will also work with their MPs, councillors and local youth groups on the issues that concern them most.
In the BCP area a total of 6563 votes were cast across 25 schools and colleges, smashing the record for the biggest turnout in a BCP Youth Parliament election. The successful MYPs were announced at a ceremony last night (Monday 28 February) by the Chief Executive of BCP Council, Graham Farrant.
Elected as BCP’s Members of Youth Parliament 2022 – 2024 are:
Zara Sosic of Bourne Academy, with 1039 votes
Dylan Rees-Coshan of Twynham School, with 982 votes
Elected as BCP’s Deputy Members of Youth Parliament are:
Hala Maftah of Avonbourne School, with 866 votes
Annabel Hodges of Parkstone Grammar, with 737 votes
The winning candidates will represent young people from 1 March 2022 to 28 February 2024.
Speaking after the results ceremony, Graham Farrant said: "It always a privilege to announce the results and meet the new Members of Youth Parliament for BCP. I wish them every success as they get stuck into their exciting new roles."
Cllr Mike White, Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People said: "I’m really impressed with the passion and commitment from our young people. The new MYPs have put in a lot of hard work to get here and campaigned with very powerful messages on issues that are of real importance to them. I want to congratulate them on their enthusiasm as they take their first steps into the world of politics."
Young people who are interested in becoming involved are encouraged to find out more by contacting BCP Youth Development Worker, Participation, Rebbeca McDade at rebecca.mcdade@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.