Applications to stand in the 2026 Scottish Youth Parliament elections are now closed – voting will take place from 2nd – 15th November 2026
Edinburgh North Western
Why do you want to be an MSYP?
I’m running to become an MSYP because, honestly, I'm tired of young people being talked about instead of actually being listened to. Too often, decisions are made about us without us having a meaningful say in them. I want to help change that. I want young people to feel confident in using their voices, understand how they can influence decisions and recognise their opinions and experiences genuinely matter. I'm particularly passionate about equality, making opportunities more accessible and ensuring young people from different backgrounds have the support they need to succeed. I'm also really interested in politics and I want to learn more about how decisions are made and how young people can have an impact on them. For me, being an MSYP isn't about having every answer. It’s about listening, learning and making sure the voices of young people in Edinburgh North Western are genuinely represented.
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 make sure I listen to a wide range of young people rather than simply assuming everyone has the same opinions and experiences. I’d use conversations, surveys and social media to find out what matters to young people across Edinburgh North Western.
I’d also try to connect with schools, youth groups and organisations to hear from people with different backgrounds and experiences, including young people who might not usually get involved in these conversations.
I want consultation with young people to be ongoing, not something I only do when I need an answer. I’d regularly ask what young people think, share what I’ve learned and explain what I’m doing with their views.
Most importantly, I’d listen to their concerns before trying to speak on their behalf. My role would be to represent their views honestly, even when those views are different from my own.
Why should someone vote for you?
I'll listen. I'll learn. I'll speak up for you.
I'm not going to pretend I have every answer, and I'm not here to make empty promises. I'm standing as a candidate, but more than anything, I'm a student and a young person myself, and I know how important it is to feel listened to, supported and taken seriously. I'm passionate about youth voice, equality and making opportunities more accessible, and I want to turn those passions into action. I'll listen to different perspectives, ask questions, learn from other people and represent your views honestly.
I want to be someone who listens before speaking, learns before assuming and makes sure young people in Edinburgh North Western have a genuine voice.
So let’s make sure young people aren't just talked about. Let's make sure we're listened to. Vote for me!