Onehunga student named as Youth MP2 min read
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Madeleine ‘One’one, a prefect from Onehunga High School, has been named the Youth Member of Parliament for Maungakiekie-Tāmaki.
She was one of eight finalists who “made a real impression” on local MP, Greg Fleming. He praised her commitment, saying, “she has a big heart and really cares about her community. I can see her making a huge difference in people’s lives.”
Madeleine’s interest in the role was sparked after Greg spoke at her school, igniting a desire to understand the workings of government. “I am really interested in how the government works and seen how they address certain issues. I’m keen to learn more, so gave it a shot,” she says.
She expressed her gratitude in being selected, and can’t wait to begin her term, and to collaborate with her peers and the broader community.
Greg admits the selection process was more challenging than anticipated due to the high calibre of the candidates. He was so impressed, that he is forming a Youth Council in Maungakiekie-Tāmaki, with Madeleine at the helm.
“The Youth Council will let us know about things happening in the community that are affecting the lives of the youth, and we can then see how we can nurture and help them.”
Madeleine’s dedication to youth advocacy is evident as she received a scholarship to participate in the Otago University ‘Hands-on Programme’ during the January holidays. She also secured a ‘Youth Voice’ role with the Auckland Council, where she was one of 11 candidates, and the only one from the Maungekiekie area. This role was a part of the council’s Rangatahi Participatory Budget, and she joined a group of students to administer a budget for youth recreation initiatives. Their group had to develop funding criteria, advertise grants rounds, evaluate applications and allocate funding.
Looking to the future, Madeleine plans to pursue a law degree at either Otago or Victoria University. She sees this path as a stepping stone that could potentially open doors to a career in politics.
