Representing young people locally - Ibrahim shares his experience on being a board representative
At the Youth of Walsall, we provide opportunities for young to represent Walsall locally, regionally and nationally. These include UK Youth Parliament, West Midlands PCC Youth Commissioners and locality boards. One of our members Ibrahim Sohail took the opportunity to become a youth representative for the Walsall South Strategic Locality Partnership Board. More recently, he has joined the Walsall Local Integration Partnership Board. We asked him to share with us his experience on being a board representative.
Why did you join Youth of Walsall?
I joined the Youth of Walsall to empower those in Walsall who feel their voices aren’t heard. I am passionate about making a change for all young people now, and in the future. Since joining the Youth of Walsall, I have become much more confident due to the amazing opportunities provided to me, and I’ve learnt that everyone has the ability to be who they want, but they just need a kick start. YOW can be yours!
Tell us about your role on the Strategic Locality Partnership Board (SLPB).
I am on the South Walsall SLPB, where I represent young people within Walsall. Here I work with many partners including councillors, the police, education and business owners, where we talk and act upon key issues within South Walsall. The board has given me an insight into how links between partners are made and has allowed me to make my own links with people on the board. It has also developed my soft skills such as good communication skills and a strong work ethic.
Ibrahim with other local representatives at the Local Integration Partnership Board (Walsall for All Twitter)
Why is it important for young people to get involved in local boards and groups?
It is very important for young people to be involved as it allows us to give young people a voice on many issues and proposed plans for Walsall. It also allows us to grow our own soft skills and experience – which can help us in the future for job interviews etc.
Recently, you joined the Walsall Local Integration Partnership Board. Tell us more about your role and why integration is important to you?
The Local Integration Partnership Board is similar to the SLPB Board, however, we focus on community integration, to promote acceptance of cultures and to help tackle any barriers associated with being new to Walsall – to create a ‘Walsall for All’. To me, integration is important as it provides a sense of belonging which everybody deserves. It is also a way to explore and connect very different and diverse cultures.
What would you say to young people who want to get involved in local boards and groups?
For any young people who want to be involved with boards and groups, join us at Youth of Walsall. There is a plentiful amount of opportunities for members and we would love to have you with us. Youth of Walsall will also give YOU the chance to have your voice heard, which is important in creating a future for the next generation.
Youth of Walsall empowers young people to have their voices heard in the borough of Walsall. If you would like to represent young people in your local area and have your say, please visit our Get Involved page to find out more about joining us.
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