NLS student Kaddy, delivers a speech in the House of Commons as part of her role as a Member of Youth Parliament
One of our students, Kaddy, who is a Member of Youth Parliament (MYP), recently had the opportunity to deliver a speech in the Houses of Parliament and has shared her experience.
As a member of Youth Parliament (MYP), Kaddy’s role is to positively represent the views of children and young people in the Local Authority in the national UK Youth Parliament (UKYP). An important part of their role is attending the House of Commons Sitting in London. This is a unique opportunity as MYPs are the only group, other than MPs, permitted to sit on the green benches
Kaddy shares her experience in the House of Commons with us:
Words cannot illustrate how grateful I am for this transcendent opportunity where I got to meet a diverse group of young people from British Colony islands such as Gibraltar, Montserrat and even a 10 year old who was the youngest member ever that travelled all the way from the remote island Tristan da Cunha that harbours a small population of approximately 250 people!
These people had travelled oceans just to further clarify their point on how further education should be more accessible for them. Through each of these encounters, I enriched a further understanding of numerous cultures and perspectives that truly made the experience unforgettable.
One of the moments I cherished the most was when I was granted the ability to deliver a speech on why 'Public transport should be free for all under 18’s.' In just 1 minute and 30 seconds, I emphasised that if transport is free, young people can access employment opportunities, education, be prevalent members in society, and they can ultimately avail themselves of exceptional opportunities.
I highlighted that free public transport could not only ease financial pressures on families but significantly reduce financial barriers and it isn’t just about convenience, it’s about creating equal opportunities for all young people to prevail and experience their potential.
In closing, I want to reiterate my gratitude for the incredible individuals that I’ve had the opportunity to meet along this journey, including Jeremy Corbyn, who was 'Mr Speaker' in the event. Their insights and previous experiences have profoundly shaped my perspective and further inspired me to strive for my aspirations with a renewed resolve and how much of an impact young people have when we come together and advocate for change.
You can see Kaddy deliver her speech in this recording UK Youth Parliament 2025 - Kaddy starts to speak at 13:00. (Subtitles can be enabled by clicking the CC button)
We are very proud of Kaddy's involvement to this elected role and for sharing her experience and enthusiasm with us.
