As I sit in the Jubilee Café inside the Houses of Parliament, waiting to attend the Raising the Nation Play Commission: Interim Report Parliamentary event, I can’t help but reflect on how incredibly fortunate I am to be involved in the work that I do. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would have the opportunity to take part in events like this—shaping discussions on issues that truly matter and ensuring that the voices of young people and local communities are heard at every level.
While I wait, I’m also putting the finishing touches on my speech for tomorrow’s Wiltshire Council meeting. It’s a big one—I’ll be moving two amendments to the council’s budget, as well as a motion aimed at increasing transparency in Cabinet meetings. Local government has the power to make a real difference in people’s lives, but only when it operates openly and honestly. That’s why I’m fighting to ensure that decision-making is more accessible to both councillors and the residents we serve.
And the excitement doesn’t stop there! On Friday, I’ll be back in the House of Commons once again—this time in my role as a Trustee of the National Youth Agency—as the UK Youth Parliament gathers to debate key issues that matter to young people across the country. It’s always inspiring to see young people standing up and making their voices heard, and I can’t wait to be part of it.
This week is a perfect example of what councillors can achieve if they’re willing to put in the work. Local government isn’t just about potholes and bin collections (although those matter too!); it’s about standing up for communities, influencing national debates, and making sure the next generation has the opportunities they deserve.
I am so unbelievably lucky to have these opportunities, and I never take them for granted. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the more you put in, the more you can achieve. Here’s to another exciting week ahead!
