Applications to stand in the 2026 Scottish Youth Parliament elections are now closed – voting will take place from 2nd – 15th November 2026

Rhea-leigh Hardie

Edinburgh Eastern, Musselburgh and Tranent

Key Issues

  • Equalities
  • Education
  • Health and wellbeing

Candidate Presentation

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Picture of Rhea-leigh Hardie

Candidate Profile

Why do you want to be an MSYP?

My ambition of becoming a MSYP began when I was twelve, when a local MSYP visited my school to talk about the opportunities attached to becoming an MSYP. Hearing about what they had done to improve Scotland. For example, the ongoing campaign to have period products available in public spaces resonated with me and encouraged me to get involved. In addition to this, watching strong female characters like Elle Woods from Legally Blonde taught me how to push past barriers to challenging careers. Having strong role models such as my sister (and Elle Woods!) in my life has inspired me to grow into the kind of person who can be that same positive influence for young people.

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 plan to consult with young people from across the constituency by organising monthly drop-in sessions. For example, I plan to begin running a drop-in session with the East Lothian Youth Action group at Prestonpans Community Centre. This would help ensure that the voices of young people are heard. I would also like to create and distribute Google Forms to hear from young people across the constituency. I want all young people to be at the heart of decision-making because it directly affects their day-to-day lives. Within my own school, I have seen the importance of this upfront through taking an active leadership role in pupil voice. I plan to send out surveys about the accessibility of learning and the quality of education to gather data and develop an action plan that helps bring about the changes young people want to see.

Why should someone vote for you?

I believe that I am a very capable and hardworking person with the potential to be an amazing MSYP. I have been involved in many outreach groups. For example, I ran a community group that consulted families about online safety to help them protect young people from online harm.This highlights my outgoing, sociable personality and my commitment to ensuring young people are actively heard and included in politics. I have been fortunate enough to gain experience in the role of an MSYP. For example, attending the sitting in stirling last year which gave me the opportunity to join the "mind yer time" group all about online safety and awareness.