Nathi Halimana

Clackmannanshire and Dunblane

Key Issues

• Equalities
• Education
• Health and wellbeing

Candidate Presentation

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Candidate Profile

Why do you want to be an MSYP?

I want to be an MSYP because I genuinely care about young people having a voice and being taken seriously. I admire the work the Scottish Youth Parliament has achieved to make sure young people’s views are heard and brought into conversations about the issues that affect us. I want to build on that work in my own area by listening to young people, understanding what matters to them and making sure their ideas are represented. I believe being an MSYP is not about speaking over young people, it is about giving them a platform and making sure their voices reach the people who can create change. I am passionate, determined and ready to speak up, but I also know how important it is to listen. I want young people to feel confident that their opinions matter, regardless of their age and their background.

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 listening to young people a key part of my role as an MSYP. I would not only hear from those already involved in youth groups or leadership, but actively reach young people who may not usually feel confident speaking up.

I would use social media, anonymous surveys, polls and face-to-face conversations in schools, youth groups and community spaces. Making opportunities accessible by offering different ways to share views, using clear language and considering accessibility needs, including those of disabled and neurodivergent young people. I would also ensure those with limited access to technology have other ways to participate.

I would welcome opinions that challenge my own because good representation means listening, not assuming. I would regularly share what I am working on and report back on what has happened.

Most importantly, I want young people to see their voices listened to, represented and turned into action.

Why should someone vote for you?

I am passionate about ensuring that young people are not only listened to, but genuinely involved in the decisions that affect their lives. Through my involvement in school leadership, Pupil Parliament, youth programmes and community initiatives, I have developed experience in representing different perspectives, communicating with a wide range of people and turning ideas into action.
I want to use this experience to represent young people across my area honestly and inclusively. I understand that young people have different experiences, priorities and challenges, and I would make it a priority to create accessible ways for everyone to share their views — including those who may not feel confident speaking in traditional settings.
I am particularly interested in making sure young people's voices are heard by decision-makers and that consultation leads to meaningful action. I would approach the role with enthusiasm, openness and a will to listen, while keeping young people at the centre of the work.
For me, being an MSYP would be about representing others, building connections within my community and helping young people feel that their voices genuinely matter.