WOMBARRA teenager Alyssa Jeffries has an ambition to enter federal politics one day.

Already a member of the NSW Youth Parliament for Heathcote, the starter’s gun has sounded on the 17-year-old Wombarra resident’s political career.

Now the Illawarra Grammar School student is taking another step in her political ambitions by nominating as a candidate for Young Wollongong Mayor.

Alyssa is one of 15 young people who will contest the second Wollongong Youth Forum poll in November.

Voting will take place in schools, community and neighbourhood centres as well as the Wollongong Youth Centre between 4 and 15 November, with the election results announced on 15 November.

Now in its second year, Youth Forum is open to residents aged 12-17 seeking a one-year term working with Council on various issues affecting them and their community.

Run in partnership with the Foundation for Young Australians’ (FYA), the Youth Forum is part of the Young Mayors Program, a concept based on successful youth leadership models in the United Kingdom.

Nominees will also have access to marketing tutorials, free campaign t-shirts and a $100 budget for campaign materials ahead of a Meet the Candidates community forum giving campaigners the chance to hear from and speak with constituents.

Elected members will enjoy 12-month tenure beginning in December, and the opportunity to offer a fresh, youthful perspective on local government issues.

“I want to ensure that all young people have the opportunity to speak up about the adversities they face,” Alyssa said.

“The Young Mayor program can be a powerful platform for positive change, and I want to use it to amplify youth voices and address issues impacting young people in the Illawarra.

“I am passionate about creating a safer environment for young people both in and out of school, expanding mental health resources through partnerships with organisations like Headspace, and driving sustainability initiatives to protect Wollongong’s unique natural beauty,” Alyssa said.

Asked what key project she would like to deliver if elected to the role, Alyssa was quick with an answer.

“I would work on installing Return and Earn machines in all local schools,” she said.

“This initiative would not only encourage recycling but also help schools raise funds. It’s a simple, effective way to promote sustainability and support school programs.”

Alyssa has a history of youth advocacy. But, it seems her future lies in politics.

“After I leave school, I would love to enter politics or international relations so that I can continue to make meaningful changes on a large scale,” she said.

“My long-term goal is to one day be a federal government member.”

For more information visit Young Mayors Wollongong website

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