I am a young person and I am interested in politics!
Politics and current affairs have always captivated me. I was always keen to get involved locally in my community, and getting engaged in politics has allowed me to turn this passion into a reality.
Not many young people are interested in politics, and if they are then it is most likely they have certain thoughts and opinions. Rather than berating the government like most of my peers, I have a deep intrigue in the workings of Westminster and a passion for the achievement of social justice. It could be fair to argue that I am not a typical Young Conservative, in that I am of a working background and have been raised by a single parent. Moreover, I am firmly in the centre ground politically. Like most people I believe in job security and a growing economy, a properly funded NHS and social mobility across society. When I was prompted by a family friend to get involved, I met the idea with trepidation. How could the party that has governed for the majority of modern history welcome me, with my background?
I could not have been further from the truth. Adoption as a council candidate was swift, the encouragement I received allowed me to perform with succinct confidence, more welcome than I had ever felt in my days at school.
I was selected to stand against the Leader of the council, Tom Wells. Whilst unsuccessful, I heavily increased the vote share of my party and led a unique campaign full of enthusiasm on the topics I cared about. Rather than this be the end of my involvement with the local association, the opportunities presented to me have been abundant.
As of today, I have gained three jobs out of my initial opportunity and become a key member of the local party’s team. I now work in Parliament, a surreal experience for someone of my background. What I hope to prove is that, for all its criticism, my party sees everyone on their own merits and provides opportunity that is far beyond what you could imagine. It has allowed me to express myself and my opinions free from the discrimination and censorship that you may find in the education system. More importantly though, it has allowed me to be the best version of myself.
To any young person reading this, whichever party you support, I urge you to follow your interests and get involved because without our engagement our generation’s voices will not be heard.
