MANNINGHAM Youth Forum meets twice a term, or more if we have important issues we need to discuss. Meetings are held at council chambers and everyone gets a turn to take the chair and take minutes. It’s us who decide where the meeting goes and what is decided.

The forum started in 1999 and my first meeting was in 2008. I was in year 8 at the time. I was 14 and actually under the age limit, which is 15, but they let me come on board anyway.

The role of the forum is to advise the council on policy issues which affect young people in the community, so they can obtain a youth viewpoint. It’s great for youth forum members to learn about things happening in our community.

Last year, for example, we were really excited to hear about the Doncaster feasibility study. A train to Doncaster is something we’re all very in favour of, because if our parents aren’t around it’s very difficult to get around.

Youth participation is another big issue. Yes, we use social media but it is always better to discuss issues face to face. Once we get back to school we can use social media to get our views across.

I truly think we are one of the biggest municipalities in Melbourne, we have so many sports facilities and halls we use for meetings. To be honest, my favourite place to hang is Doncaster Shoppingtown – it’s a popular place for all of the youth in Manningham. We told the council how many youth hang out at Doncaster, that’s why a youth centre was approved for the Manningham MC2 community hub: so we can bring all the youth to hang out there.

Another thing I value about Manningham is the low crime statistics and good parks.

When I eventually leave school, and I’m in uni, I would like to buy an apartment in the Doncaster Hill area. I think it’s a great initiative, it’s very close to everything and affordable.

Right now, I’m in year 11 and part of a scholarship program at Melbourne University. I hope to study arts and law there. I also hope we will have a Doncaster train line by then.

That’s why you should join our youth forum, so you can have a say. We want a group of enthusiastic and eager young people who are keen to learn and make a difference. Being involved in your community and being an activist and someone who cares about these issues is very important – it can also help you win scholarships. If you’re aged between 15 and 25 and live, work or study in Manningham, you’re eligible.

For more information about how you can join the Manningham Youth Forum, call 9840 9453 or visit manningham.vic.gov.au