Fatmata Kanu

Cunninghame South

Key Issues

• Education
• Employment
• Health and wellbeing

Candidate Profile

Why do you want to be an MSYP?

I want to be an MSYP because I believe that every young person in Scotland should have a say in decisions that affect us and our future. As a young person, I understand that we have ideas, concerns and opinions but we do not always know whom to talk to and how to make our voices heard. I will use this opportunity to listen to young people in my community and school, to make sure their views are respected. Education, employment, health and wellbeing are important because young people deserve the right to support and opportunities to help them achieve their goals and prepare for their future. I would also encourage young people to feel more confident about speaking up and getting involved in their community. Being a MSYP would also allow me to learn from other young people, represent them and work towards positive changes that matters.

How will you consult with the young people in your area or organisation to ensure that they are represented well and their voices are heard?

I would ensure I listen to and get close to other young people through surveys, suggestion boxes and conversations. I would create a safe and comfortable space where young people feel like they can share their ideas, concerns and experiences without feeling judged because at the end of the day that how the decision makers and the SYP are going to be able to tackle the issues in our communities.
I would organise a discussion meeting where I would get to speak to wide range of young people, not just my friends, because everyone has different experiences and opinions. I would also keep young people updated on what happens with their ideas, including when cannot be changed, so this way we can plan how we could improve our messages that would change the decision makers minds. My role as SYP would be to listen, represent and keep you informed.

Why should someone vote for you?

If you decide to vote me as your SYP I will bring commitment and willingness to make a difference to this role. Being a Young Leader of Learning in my school has helped me develop my skills in working with other young people and has shown me how important everyone’s views and experiences are. I have already had the opportunity to listen to young people, work with others and helped make sure their ideas are heard.
I believe in improving our communities, educational systems, the health and wellbeing of all young people in Scotland, while also creating more for opportunities for young people to get involved.
This is why I believe I would be a good person to represent you as a SYP. I am not starting from scratch-I am building on the work I am already doing in my school and taking that experience further to represent young people across North Ayrshire.
#YoungVocies, Real change.