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Youth parliament member’s childhood political dreams

Ben SmithCanning Gazette

SHE harboured dreams of being Prime Minister from a young age and now Mahliet Gebrekiristos is getting her first taste of politics.

Miss Gebrekiristos will represent the seat of Cannington at this year’s youth parliament and met with local member Bill Johnston last week.

The pair discussed her plans and priorities and the Cannington MLA presented Miss Gebrekiristos with a donation towards the cost of participating in the program.

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The 19 year-old, currently studying a double degree in International Relations and Economics at Curtin University, said she had been interested in politics from a young age.

“My interest in politics had started when I was a young girl dreaming of being Prime Minister,” Miss Gebrekiristos said.

“I constantly tried to make ‘change’ in my home by debating my parents on their rules, believing that was all it took to be a Prime Minister.

“I am very passionate about youth affairs and have always wanted to have an opportunity to use my voice on this topic which lead me to applying for Youth Parliament.”

Mr Johnston said Miss Gebrekiristos had some great ideas and he had no doubt she would make a positive contribution towards youth parliament.

The youth parliament program allows young adults aged between 15 and 25-years-old to learn about writing legislation and speeches and participants can even present bills in parliament house.

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