Sunshine Coast Grammar School Year 12 student, Alex Ladwig has been named Youth Member for Nicklin 2022 through the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament program.
Alex is one of the 93 young people selected to represent each electorate in Queensland. The competitive program provides an important link for youth to influence real levels of Government and improve their confidence by interacting with other like-minded young people of varying backgrounds and opinions.
“I am most looking forward to meeting like-minded peers, as well as being able to represent young people in my community”, said Alex.
Alex is a strong advocate for Domestic and Family Violence and continues to support survivors through local organisations such as The Zonta Club of Maroochy.
“I strongly believe that more needs to be done on a larger scale to promote rehabilitation of offenders. Whilst some programs have been trialled and implemented, more funding needs to be directed to this area”, said Alex.
“I am thankful that as part of my role as Youth Member for Nicklin, I have the opportunity to raise my concerns in the Portfolio for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Housing, Infrastructure, and Transport.”
The Program continues to challenge young people and provides a platform and opportunity to experience a career in politics.
“I am really excited and grateful to have been selected as I am considering a career in politics. The dynamic nature of the industry and the ability to connect my love of law with my desire to help my community will be rewarding”, said Alex.
The Program will commence in April with a ceremony at Parliament House, Brisbane. Program participants will then meet to discuss Youth Bill ideas and form legislative portfolios before the Residential Sitting Week in September, where Youth Members debate their Youth Bills.
Alex will serve as a Youth Member for Nicklin for the remainder of 2022. In addition to serving as Youth Member, Alex will also continue her role as Representative for Amnesty International. Alex’s achievements also continue on the sporting field where she has recently been named Captain of Grammar’s Equestrian Team.
“One of my personal goals this year was to grasp all opportunities presented to me with both hands, no matter how far out of my comfort zone they may put me”, said Alex.