Meet your 2025 Youth Council

When reflecting on the decision to continue with SDYC, Justin Salisbury says, “I am still passionate about making a lasting impact in my community and ensuring that youth voices continue to be heard. Through my experience, I believe that I will be able to lead by example for our newest members so that we can all come together to make an even better Stratford community.”

Tatjana Hanne says, “I chose to be re-sworn in to SDYC as I have loved the way it has given me an ability to advocate for the youth of my community.”

In his opening comments at the swearing in ceremony, District Mayor Neil Volzke highlighted the important role of the youth council and the commitment they’re giving to their district.

“Being involved in the youth council is a great personal development journey and I congratulate everyone who applied,” he says. “It opens doors to many opportunities, both locally and further afield.”

“As elected members we have a really important relationship with the youth council, we like hearing their ideas and viewpoints and encourage them to get out and about in our community to foster feedback and get a good understanding of what our young people want and need in our district.”

“We want to create a place that our young people are proud to call home, and the youth council have a role to play in ensuring we’re doing the right thing for the future of our district.”

Over the coming weeks, youth councillors will get to know each other more as they head straight into event planning and delivery mode for their first community events together. These include:

• Children’s Day Party at Wai o Rua – Stratford Aquatic Centre, Sunday 2 March
• Colour in the Park, Sunday 9 March

Chair, secretary and other liaison roles will be determined at the Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 4 March.