Last term, Year 11 student Zarah, who was previously Chair of Reading Youth Council, became a Member of Youth Parliament for Reading. She recently visited the Houses of Parliament for the ‘Make Your Mark’ debate and voiced the young people of Reading. Zarah has also met with local politicians, such as Alok Sharma MP, to discuss youth-related issues.

Zarah says, “In Reading Youth Council, we have decided on the campaigns we will be focusing on in 2019: Ending Knife Crime and Gang Violence, Mental Health, and Tackling Homelessness. This is what the majority of young people are concerned about and I cannot wait to make positive changes in Reading. I will be meeting with Reading Superintendent Officer, Stan Gilmour, to discuss effective campaign plans for Knife Crime and Gangs. Also, I shall be working closely with charities to improve the effectiveness of mental health services. Hopefully with the support from everyone, I will be able to raise awareness about these important issues!” 

We wish Zarah every success in her role!