Naim Afolabi

Clackmannanshire and Dunblane

Key Issues

• Equalities
• Employment
• sports

Candidate Presentation

https://youtube.com/shorts/RBQJnGaoKUU?feature=shared

Candidate Profile

Why do you want to be an MSYP?

I want to be an MSYP because I am passionate about making sure young people are genuinely listened to, trusted, and valued in our communities. Too often, adults dismiss young people as reckless, untrustworthy, or incapable of making good decisions for themselves. I am determined to change that mindset. Giving young people the opportunity to lead and make choices builds our confidence, sharpens our skills, and shapes better futures for all of us. Through taking part in team sports like rugby and other clubs and programmes, I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact young people can make when we work together. I want to be an MSYP to bring local young people together, challenge stereotypes, and ensure our voices influence the decisions that affect us.

What are the issues that matter most to you?

sports

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?

To ensure every young person in my area is well-represented, I would use both digital methods and face-to-face listening.
I would use social media platforms that young people actually use to do quick polls, gather feedback, and take questions. This provides an accessible, everyday easy way for everyone to have their say.
I would also host regular in-person drop-in sessions and discussions in local schools, youth clubs, and community spaces. This creates an open, welcoming space for young people to share their views, raise concerns, and speak with me directly. I will make sure no young person is left out.

Why should someone vote for you?

You should vote for me because I am a confident, approachable leader who genuinely knows how to listen and bring people together. I care about making changes and have recently joined my Academy’s Pupil Parliament, I will be regularly working with others to discuss and make practical improvements in our school.
Taking part in the Columba 1400 Leadership Programme helped me improve my skills even further, where I helped lead a project improving the P7 to S1 transition. We supported the new pupils and made the process more comforting for them as they had a recognisable face of who to go to for help closer to their age.
In primary school I captained my debate team, this taught me how to organise events, speak publicly, and communicate effectively with both pupils and staff. I am naturally good at making people feel at ease and bringing different ideas together to benefit the majority. Vote for me to get an MSYP who is experienced and dedicated to making positive changes for local young people.