YOUNG people from across the region tackled some of society’s biggest issues at a debate held at Wigan Town Hall.
Wigan and Leigh’s Youth Cabinet hosted Youthforia last weekend, an event that sees key figures address an audience of more than 100 of young representatives.
Speakers included the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, Wigan Council leader, Cllr David Molyneux, and Wigan borough mayor, Cllr Steve Dawber.
Council chief executive Alison McKenzie-Folan and lead member for youth opportunities, Cllr Susan Gambles, held a question and answer session.
The Q&A focussed on the topic of Inspirational Women to coincide with International Women’s Day.
Dania from Wigan and Leigh Youth Cabinet puts her question to the panel
Mia from Wigan and Leigh Youth Cabinet asks a question
Cllr Gambles said: “Youthforia is one way for young people to have an influence over regional issues that may affect them.
“We know how important it is to listen to young people in Wigan Borough and we have a number of different structures from local youth groups to links into the UK Youth Parliament.
“They make sure that young people have the skills to share their views and are listened to at a local, regional and national level.
“It was a fantastic day and great to welcome so many young people to our borough.”
The event is organised by the Youth Focus North West providing an opportunity for young people to quiz decision-makers on issues important to them.
Martha and Natasha, both from Orrell, are new members of Wigan and Leigh Youth Cabinet and this was their first Youthforia meeting.
Young people from across the north west at Wigan's Youthforia meeting
Martha, 11, said: “In Parliament you have to know how to debate so it was good to have a go and share my ideas.
“I enjoyed talking with lots of different people.”
Natasha, 12, added: “I’ve never done anything like this before and I loved it. It was definitely a day I won’t forget.”
Young people who are aged 11-17 and would like to get involved in Wigan and Leigh Youth Cabinet or one of Wigan Council’s youth groups, so that they can join activities such as Youthforia in future, can email the council’s targeted youth support services on tyssweb@wigan.gov.uk.
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