The newly elected Federation Youth Council with Federation Council mayor, Cheryl Cook.
Federation Youth Council has entered a dynamic new chapter following its July meeting, which elected a new Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor and swore in a passionate cohort of new youth councillors.
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The incoming Youth Council will serve a one-year term, working actively to ensure the voices, ideas, and concerns of young residents are heard by the by Federation Council and the broader community.
Alyssa Walda, 17, from Corowa High School was elected by her peers to serve as the new Federation Youth Mayor along with Deputy Youth Mayor, Wietse Walda,14.
The evening celebrated the formal swearing-in of three new councillors, Ellie Watson, Eli Milczarek, and Wietse Walda who will join Alyssa Walda, Bel Carrol, Dominic Nidds, Max Sampson and Dayna Carter representing a diverse cross-section of young people from across the Council area.
Katharina Gillis will be sworn in at the next meeting, as she was attending the Y NSW Youth Parliament Residential Camp and Sitting Week at NSW Parliament House, where she joined other youth leaders from across the state to debate youth-led bills and national issues.
Alyssa, newly elected Youth Mayor expressed immense pride and excitement for the term ahead.
"I’m so grateful my fellow councillors trusted me with this role," she said.
"Our biggest goal this year is to connect young people with local government.
“Whether it’s highlighting save driving or just having more fun things to do around town, this youth council is ready to jump right in and make a real difference."
Alyssa Walda, 17, from Corowa High School was elected by her peers as the new Federation Council youth mayor.
Federation council has said a huge thank you to Max Sampson and Dayna Carter as they wrap up their roles as Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor.
Max and Dayna have been incredible leaders this term, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
Among their many achievements, they supported the community consultation for the Council’s first-ever Child, Youth, and Family Strategy, hosted the Halloween Disco, ran Youth Week Skate and Art events, and organized outdoor movie nights.
They also took their leadership on the road representing the Council at events in Sydney and Hay, and helped host the Federation Australia Day Awards and Ceremony.
The Federation Youth Council acts as an advisory body, giving young people aged 12 -25 a direct platform to influence local policy, organise youth-led events, and develop critical leadership skills.
Federation Council Mayor, Cheryl Cook attended the ceremony to officially swear in the new members and extend congratulations to the executive team.
"Investing in our youth is investing in the future of our entire community," Cr Cook said.
“The energy, fresh perspectives, and dedication that these young leaders bring to the table are invaluable.
“I congratulate the new Youth Mayor and Deputy Mayor, and I look forward to working closely with the entire Youth Council over the coming year."
The Federation Youth Council’s first official public initiative for the term will be the return of the popular Halloween Party and Disco upcoming youth event in October.
