Pupil becomes Newport's first youth politician

Alexander Willis, of Allt-Yr-Yn, said he is excited to stand for the young people in his home town.

The UK Youth Parliament provides opportunities for 11-18 year olds to use their elected voice to bring about social change through meaningful representation and campaigning.

Alexander will be in his term of office on the Youth Parliament for around the next two years, and said he is excited to finally become a member.

“The most important aspect of my job as an MYP is to make sure I represent the views of the young people in Newport,” said Alexander.

“I will work to give young people a voice, which includes listening to marginalised groups, meeting decision makers, lobbying for change, organising campaigns and appearing in the media, all to amplify the views of my peers.”

Alexander, who is currently in Year 11 at St Joseph’s RC High School, said he became interested in politics and started campaigning at the age of 13, during the General Election campaign of 2015.

“I had always taken an interest in local and world issues on the news, but wanted to learn a bit more about what the politicians were talking about - so I did my research and started campaigning,” he added.

The opportunity for him to become a member of the Youth Parliament arose this year through Newport Youth Council, which he has been a part of since the summer this year.

He said he hopes to help out with issues around the city, including supporting local traders and businesses.

Alexander said: “My top priorities will be fighting for young people whilst getting them involved and properly consulted on decisions that affect them, but also to use my elected office to throw my full support behind local issues.”

Alexander describes himself as being extremely passionate about politics and says he “always enjoys meeting different people and hearing their opinions”.

He has asked anyone wanting to voice an opinion about a local issue to email him at awillis.myp@gmail.com