Giving young people a voice Our new Youth Parliament is Southwark’s biggest ever directlyelected youth body with 45 members from across the borough. 10
southwark.gov.uk
We spoke to leader Awele Benokwu who has big ideas for being a voice for young people at the heart of the council's decision making.
What excites you most about your new role? I’m really excited about the ideas I can bring. I’ve lived in Southwark since I was a baby and there are many things I wish had been on offer to young people. I’m looking forward to using my role to influence decisions that impact us the most with a focus on bringing young people together.
What inspired you to put yourself forward as a candidate? When I was writing my application, I thought of my parents and the smiles on their faces whenever I achieve something. When they say ‘well done’ to me, I feel so good about myself. Their support is what inspired me.
