Would you like to introduce yourself and what you do?

My name is Lydia Roebuck and I am 15 years old. Currently I am the Chair of the Kingston and Richmond Youth council as well as the Member of Youth Parliament for Richmond. 

What does being a member of the Kingston and Richmond Youth council entail?

To be honest it entails so much - anything from group facilitation to podcast production. KRYC is full of so many opportunities for the Youth councillors. For example, in the past couple of months, we have accomplished so much irrespective of COVID-19: sexual harrassment survey, vaccination promotion video, climate change funding scheme and so much more. I can’t stress the invaluable experience I have gained from the Youth council and the people in it. The process requires hard work and determination; however, the rewards are so great that it's worth it. 

Could you explain what a Member of Youth Parliament is and what their job is?

A Member of Youth Parliament represents all the views of young people from their respective boroughs on a national scale. So personally, I represent the views of all the young people in Richmond on the national stage; therefore, I work with lots of other young people across London and the rest of the country. With that role comes great responsibility and the competition for the role is strong - alas, it is a truly fulfilling role. Annually, the MYPs nationally run the Make Your Mark survey, a short questionnaire which gives all young people the opportunity to share their views on things that mean the most to them, across the country. This not only gives the British Youth Council so much invaluable data but it also a great learning experience for a developing MYP. 

With that role comes great responsibility and the competition for the role is strong - alas, it is a truly fulfilling role.

Could you run through an average week of work for you and what that looks like?

Within my work, every week looks quite different, which makes it so exciting. Normally, I have 2-3 meetings a week. Firstly, on Monday the whole of the Youth council comes together to discuss the main projects and plans going on. It's a fun night and allows everyone to check in with each other. Later on in the week, I have various other project focused meetings, from focus groups from survey feedback or planning for upcoming presentations. In between meetings, I am available by email or telephone for anything that may come up during the week. As Chair, there is a greater need to be available for meetings, particularly when planning the agenda for the following weeks. 

What made you more involved in the local area?

Ever since I can remember I have wanted to help people and make change. Three years ago, when the youth council was first introduced I couldn’t wait to get involved. I think it is so important that young people’s voices are heard and I want to be part of that change in my local borough. From meeting with Richmond Councillors to talking with other young people, I really hope I have made change and improved the lives of young people in any way I can. 

I think it is so important that young people’s voices are heard and I want to be part of that change in my local borough.

What is your advice to people who want to help out in the community?

I would say believe in yourself. If you are interested in putting yourself forward for candidacy in your local borough or emailing your MP or even making change in your school, go for it. We live in a world desperate for more progressive forward thinking young people who want to make change so if there is something you want to improve do not stop working hard till you achieve your goals. As a young woman who took the plunge into the world of politics surrounded by councillors who are running their own political game, showing up and talking to people is invaluable. 

 

As a young woman who took the plunge into the world of politics surrounded by councillors who are running their own political game, showing up and talking to people is invaluable. 

Any closing words?

I would like to say thank you to Praneeth for giving me the opportunity to write about me and my achievements with the Youth Coucil. I feel honoured! And keep working hard and aspiring high!