Samantha Jordan is the new member of the Scottish Youth Parliament representing the Western Isles
Abigail Taylor
Young people all over Scotland can influence decision-making through the Scottish Youth Parliament. Members, elected to represent constituencies, run regular campaigns, which have recently focussed on themes such as mental health and climate change, and are involved in consultations with numerous organisations including the Scottish Government.
Samantha Jordan, a senior student at Sgoil Lionacleit, has been elected to represent the Western Isles. She will take up her position in March and represent the islands until 2024.
“It covers a lot of bases such as education, employment and the environment,” said Samantha of her new role as MSYP.
“Each member has their own constituency to consult young people and be the voice for them, no matter how big or small the issue.
“I focused my campaign on the environment and climate change, because this area is so heavily impacted. I am in a lot of climate change groups and hope this role will help me raise awareness for the issue and let people know that just because we are young, does not mean we don’t have to worry.
“I want people to know that I am here to listen to whatever their concerns are and I am happy to bring that with me throughout my term in the Scottish Youth Parliament.”
Samantha got the idea to run for election from former MSYP chair, Josh Kennedy, last year when she attended the state opening of the Scottish Parliament.
“I am part of a co-climate design group for climate change and there was an opportunity to go to the opening of the Scottish Parliament,” explained Samantha.
“I was lucky enough to go and met the former chair of the Scottish Youth Parliament, Josh, and deputy chair, Liam, who both spoke so highly of the experience. I got home, started researching, put my name forward and from there it has all taken off. I have always wanted to make a difference and this is a way to do that.
“We get the opportunity to join committees on the issues we feel passionate about in order to represent our constituencies. We even get the chance to take them to the Scottish Parliament. I am so excited to get to parliament and see it in action!”
