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Aspiring Young Leaders from St Michael’s College Converge at Parliament House

Three St Michael’s College students and aspiring young leaders were selected from across the state and took their seat at Parliament House as they pitched their bold ideas for a brighter South Australia.

Maeve (Year 10), Aidan (Year 11) and Brendan (Year 11) gathered in the House of Assembly on Friday 8 March for The Advertiser’s 2024 Teen Parliament initiative. Politicians and changemakers watched on as the students shared their vision for the future, guided by speaker Dan Cregan.

Maeve Aidan Brendan

We congratulate Brendan who was recognised as one of the 10 winners of Teen Parliament 2024 and has received a $10,000 scholarship as a result of his outstanding contribution. Brendan represented the College with pride and professionalism as he proposed an initiative called YOUthFish, an innovative fishing program that would help support youth mental health.

The idea, born from a passion for fishing, encourages young people to take up the hobby and meet up at a fishing spot each month. The proposal won the support of many in the chamber who welcomed and shared Brendan’s love of the great outdoors.

“YOUthFish will show its members that catching fish is just a fraction of what it is all about. YOUthFish will give teens the chance to learn new techniques, be resourceful, engage in healthy exercise, build relationships and improve mental health, while allowing themselves to be immersed in nature, leaving any worries such as homework behind before their line is even cast.” – Brendan, Year 11

Brendan accepted his award and scholarship at the Future SA event at SkyCity, Adelaide, presented by South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas and in attendance of Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese.

Photo courtesy of The Advertiser

We extend our congratulations to Maeve and Aidan who also showcased their ideas for the state, representing the College with pride and demonstrating their leadership potential.

Maeve believes that every South Australian deserves to enjoy their time at the beach and devised a strategy to ensure the safety of our local beaches using aerial patrol data.

“South Australia’s coastlines are a huge asset, but currently people are uncomfortable with the recent shark attacks and deaths. Sharing aerial data with surf clubs and showing live messages when there is a shark present would help let swimmers know about potential danger earlier.” – Maeve, Year 10

Aidan voiced his idea of better connecting South Australia via rail, with an extension of the Seaford rail line to include Aldinga Beach, Willunga and McLaren Vale. His proposal would be a cheaper, faster and more environmentally friendly way for people to travel to the southern suburbs.

“This would all accommodate the recent growth and proposed development in the area, and the added benefits like less road congestion and tourism” – Aidan, Year 11

The College commends this outstanding achievement by all three of our students and their passion for shaping a brighter future for South Australia. Reflecting on the experience, Brendan encourages fellow students to get involved in the Teen Parliament initiative.

“I thoroughly recommend that any students who have an idea for the state that they are passionate about enter next year’s scholarship, as the entire process has been a great experience.”  – Brendan, Year 11

Please CLICK HERE to read more about our Teen Parliament students in The Advertiser article.