A word from our Youth Ambassador, Sien

I’m Sien, a non-binary, 20-year-old young person living, working and studying in the Yarra Ranges. I moved with my family to the Yarra Ranges when I was nine years old. It was a huge adjustment to the bustling suburbs I had grown up in. I love its beautiful flora and fauna and the differing landscapes that I see within my daily commute. I have always been loud about the things I’m passionate about, like art and science, but most importantly, advocacy.

I became a Youth Ambassador in 2021 and have loved it ever since. Throughout my time with Yarra Ranges Council, I have been able to advocate for the young people who may not usually have their voices heard. As a young person, I haven’t always felt like my voice and opinions mattered, but through this role, I have seen that what I have to say does matter, and that’s what I want young people to know.

I have seen more plants placed around the new Lilydale train station, because that’s what young people wanted. I’ve seen Yarra Ranges’ first Pride Formal, because that’s what young people wanted. Young people are our future, so we need to listen to what they want, need, think, and feel.

I am particularly passionate about mental health, accessibility, and LGBTQIA+ issues, all of which have contributed to my work within council and across the Yarra Ranges community (you may recognise my face from articles advocating for the Lilydale Youth Hub to remain open).

I have loved all the consultations I have been part of, where I get to speak to young people directly. It feels great that they know they’re being heard. Although my term as Youth Ambassador finishes up this year, I can’t wait to see what further impact we can have!