In September, adult residents voted for Wollongong City Councillors. This week, teenagers are voting at ballot boxes in high schools across the city for representatives on Wollongong Youth Forum, the only one of its kind in NSW.

It's the second year that Wollongong City Council has partnered with the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) to democratically elect a forum for ages 12 to 17 as part of the Young Mayors Program. Polling opened today, November 4 and will close on November 13.

Results will be announced on November 15, after which the 12 teenagers elected will spend a year working with Council on various issues.

Giving young people not only a public voice but a platform to put their ideas into practice is a concept spreading around the world but relatively new in Australia, with only five programs across the country. We gave our local campaigners the chance to share their stories and – just like the mayoral candidates in the recent council elections – each tackled the same questions.

Thanks to Stevie, Sean, Charlie, Fatima, Ethan, Zelda, Mariam, Alyssa, Enerel and Jayden for their replies.

Meet a candidate: Charlie Dwyer

I’m Charlie Dwyer, a Year 7 student at Woonona High School, who is keen to play my part in helping the Youth of Wollongong. I am a fairly typical 13 year old who likes hanging out with friends, playing sports, and being free to be myself.

Why do you want to be part of the Wollongong Youth Forum?

I want to be part of the Wollongong Youth Forum so I can make a difference for young people in our region. We all want to enjoy ourselves and have a great future. I believe I can help young people be heard and make sure we are getting the local support and services we need to be our best selves. 

What are the biggest issues facing Wollongong's young people today?

I think looking after our mental health is so important, which is why I strongly believe in my slogan ‘healthy mind, healthy life’. I think that looking after ourselves, and our environment, are the keys to unlocking a successful future – not just for us as individuals, but for the future of Wollongong. 

If you could deliver one key project in your year, what would it be?

My project would centre around mental health support for young people, helping individuals feel safe, secure and proud of who they are – whoever they are.

Read more candidate Q&As with Stevie, Sean, Charlie, Fatima, Ethan, Zelda, Mariam, Alyssa, Enerel and Jayden

For more information about the Wollongong Youth Forum, visit the FYA website