Youth Profile - Megan Rollings

DARWIN’S YOUNG PEOPLE are a passionate bunch, with lots to say and heaps of wonderful ideas. City of Darwin’s Youth Advisory Committee (aka YAC) is a group of peeps aged 15-25 that provides feedback and tips on a range of topics to Council. 16-year-old Megan Rollings is one of them, and is the brains behind the new Darwin Youth Forum, a monthly catch-up to chat through issues and events. We caught up with her for a chat.

Tell us about the Youth Advisory Committee?
I can express my opinion about decisions that are being made, especially those that affect yout in general. Far too often, decisions are made for us, but we deserve to be involved in the decision-making process. Through YAC, I can express my opinion knowing that people are listening.

What made you want to join YAC?
I joined YAC following an NT UN youth conference. Some of the other participants and I discussed there was a lack of events where young people could engage in interesting discussions, learn new things and gain new perspectives. As a result, we’ve been able to start the Darwin Youth Forum. This is a place where young people can come to have complex and exciting conversations with like-minded people, which helps them develop and express their own unique opinions.

Why should young people to be included in big decisions?
Darwin has one of the youngest populations in Australia – youth represents over a quarter of the NT’s population! Such a large population is obviously affected by decisions made by our leaders. I often wonder why young people are rarely consulted about decisions that significantly impact our lives. We have our own opinions, we have our own ideas, and most important of all we have a voice.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
I’d like to work in the field of foreign relations – I love the intricacies of diplomatic engagements. You have to force yourself to understand a different perspective, and in doing so, you expand your own perspective on the world. You have to respect and acknowledge different backgrounds, cultures and opinions in order to move forward, ensuring the best outcomes for everyone.

What’s a perfect weekend look like for you in D-Town?
I like to take a break on weekends. I love to spend it with friends and family, going out for coffee or for a walk. But a must for me is the markets – it doesn’t matter which one!

Darwin Youth Forum
WHEN WED 2 DEC & WED 6 JAN | 6-7PM
AT CASUARINA LIBRARY
INFO darwinyouthforum@gmail.com