In a huge coup for Griffith and the wider Murray electorate, Maddison has been selected from hundreds if not thousands of students from across NSW to take part in this year’s YMCA Youth Parliament.

This opportunity means she can have her say on the issues she feels passionate about to initiate change, especially for those living in rural and regional areas, as well as having the chance to meet and chat with influential members of parliament.

“I am looking forward to gaining confidence within myself and to expand on my skills as a person in general,” Maddison said.

“I think the best part is meeting people who are just as passionate as you are.”

YMCA NSW Youth Parliament is an empowerment and advocacy program that provides a platform for young people to have their voices heard through legislative debate and decision making.

Aimed at young people in years 10, 11 and 12 or equivalent age throughout the state, this initiative highlights the power of young people speaking on issues important to them.

Maddison says being given this opportunity is important to her as a way of developing her skills in creating social impact and positive change.

“Going into the program I was really passionate about mental health, and when we got brainstorming, we thought that foster care was normally our main centre, so we were talking about displaced people like the homeless.”

In a training camp in April, the group had the opportunity to talk to professionals in community services to get their expert opinions, and participated in mock debates in preparation for the residential camp in July.

“Our bill is about what we can do to help prevent abuse and think of mechanisms we can use to overcome those issues,” Maddison said.

“We write the bill and then we take it to parliament. Our committee splits into two and we debate it out, then everyone votes. The bill gets voted on the ministers have a look at it afterwards.”

Maddison participated in the Junior Parliament in 2016, and found herself inspired to continue leading.

“When I got back I was really empowered to make that change, and I think that’s why it’s such a good program – people need to know about it and get involved.”

Having strong role-models growing up in Griffith, Maddison hopes leading by example will encourage others to speak up for the change they want to see.

“I think my own personal experience, especially growing up with mental health issues, has really motivated me to ensure other youth aren't suffering and that they have the support that they need.”

She says being a member of the School Representative Council (SRC) since year 7 has “shaped” her as a person.

“I want to be the voice for the voiceless, and I think that is something that has really stuck with me – I want to be there for other youth that are going through it.”

“With the new schooling programs coming up now, I think it’s really important that youth get out there and have their voices heard. I don’t think enough people particularly in regional areas do it and I think it’s important that they do.”