It was to the former centre of heavy industrial innovation, Merthyr Tydfil, where I ventured today. It was to attend the inauguration of the Youth Mayor of Merthyr County Borough.
After holding the office of Deputy Youth Mayor for a year, Dylan Morgan Thomas takes up his role as Youth Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil for 2024-2025, while his former role of Deputy Youth Mayor was taken up by Jacob Bridges.
Dylan, a fluent Welsh speaker, made three pledges for his year in office:
* to promote the Welsh Language with younger generations,
* to promote a sense of pride and care for the local area, particularly outdoor spaces, and
* to increase awareness of the importance of conservation and protecting the environment, among young people.
Youth Mayors are of huge importance across Wales. It seems even more so in Merthyr Tydfil, which has a plethora of schools catering for all needs including: the provision of primary and comprehensive education; Welsh medium requirements; faith high schools and a pupil referral unit.
Yet the Youth Mayor is the first Youth Citizen not just for those in schools, the role extends beyond a young person’s compulsory school years. In addition to this, Merthyr has its own college at the centre of the town, attracting students across its own county and even further afield.
I have heard on good authority from people within and outside the town, that the young people of Merthyr Tydfil are an industrious lot. Many taking the opportunity to occupy the plethora of part-time positions available throughout the town.
The young must realise they have a voice that can be projected by the Youth Mayor.
With the support of officers, the Youth Mayor’s responsibilities include:
* being the voice of all children and young people in Merthyr Tydfil,
* to shadow the Mayor in a number of Civic duties, including Civic Carol Service; council AGM; inauguration of Mayor; Civic Sunday; Remembrance Sunday and any other as deemed appropriate.
* to mentor and support the Deputy Youth Mayor in readiness for their term of office
* to nominate an annual charity of their choice
To stand for the position or to participate in the voting, any young person must first become a registered member of the Merthyr Tydfil Borough Wide Youth Forum (MTBWYF), the current chair of the Forum and Youth Cabinet, Luke Sharp gave the opening speech at the inauguration emphasising the importance of youth engagement and the wide range of initiatives and issues the Forum and Cabinet are addressing. MTBWYF’s goal is for every young person to be aware of their vision: “It’s your voice, your choice!” “Giving All Young People the Right to be Seen and Heard”.
The Youth Cabinet believe that Children have a right to be consulted about decisions which affect them. A principle of the empowerment of Young People in how Merthyr Borough Council delivers all Children and Young People’s services. This is an excellent reason why young people should be fully committed to the Youth Mayor’ office and position.
I wish Dylan and Jacob a fruitful, successful and enjoyable term in office. Llongyfarchiadau… Pôb lwc.