Clutha had a strong showing at the Aspiring Leaders Forum (ALF) held in Wellington last month.
The Clutha District Council (CDC) and Otago Community Trust supported Clutha Youth Council delegates Lilly Paterson and Nancy Antill to attend the four› day event for people aged 18›26 ‘‘who exhibit leadership potential in their sphere of influence, particularly those willing to discuss leadership from a personal perspective, not just the surface techniques and tips that are commonly debated,’’ CDC community support and development adviser Jean Proctor said.
In Wellington the delegates were divided into groups to work through photo opportunities, parliamentary security, formal welcomes and speeches from ALF representatives.
Question time with Members of Parliament was interspersed with community service, sports, socialising and keynote speeches.
CDC youth councillor Lilly Paterson said she was inspired by the words of media personality and commentator Te Karere Scarborough.
‘‘In his speech he said, ‘I know we will truly be partners when I can walk as easily in your world as easily as you can walk in mine.’
‘‘That really stuck with me. I’m on the youth council to advocate for disabled and LGBTQ + youth getting into employment. We’re working on an inclusivity pledge for the district,’’ Ms Paterson said.
The ASP started from a desire by political, business and community leaders to take a proactive approach in developing the next generation of leaders.
Clutha Youth Council delegate Nancy Antill said: ‘‘Since coming back from ALF my whole life changed and the way I look at it. I want to do more in the community in Owaka and Dunedin.
‘‘I have also had my eyes opened to what life is like for people who are not as privileged as I have been in life.’’
