The City of Hobart has announced the launch of its Children's Mayor program for 2024, inviting primary school students from across the city to share their visions for a brighter future.
This initiative aims to empower young voices and cultivate a deeper sense of civic engagement among Hobart's youth.
Students from primary schools throughout Hobart are encouraged to participate by crafting a short manifesto outlining how they would enhance the city for its youngest residents.
The manifestos begin with the phrase, "If I was Children's Mayor of Hobart, I would…"
Commenting on the initiative, Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said, "The Children's Mayor program provides a unique platform for our city's youngest residents to share their innovative ideas and contribute to shaping the future of Hobart.
"We are excited to hear the creative solutions and fresh perspectives that these young leaders will bring to the table."
Following a rigorous evaluation process by the Lord Mayor and her selection panel, the Hobart Children's Mayor and Deputy Mayor will be chosen to represent the voice of Hobart's youth.
The winning students will be honoured during Children's Week in October 2024 in a special reception and award presentation.
In addition to recognition, the Children's Mayor and Deputy Mayor will have the opportunity to participate in select official duties alongside the Lord Mayor and her delegates.
They will shadow the Lord Mayor in November 2024, attending meetings and experiencing a day in the life of the Hobart Lord Mayor.
Furthermore, the Children's Mayor and Deputy Mayor will have the chance to present their manifestos at a Council meeting or the City's Annual General Meeting, providing them with a platform to advocate for their ideas on a larger scale.
Princes Street Primary School's Olive Nielsen, 12, currently holds the title of City of Hobart Children's Mayor for her submission, "Let's power Hobart SUSTAINABLY!"
Olive said she has enjoyed being given a voice as Hobart's Children Mayor.
"Young people have really cool ideas about ways to improve Hobart, this competition is your chance to have your idea heard by the Council," Olive said.
"The experience gave me better insight into how Council works and how decisions are made for our city.
"Councillors listened to what I had to say and asked lots of questions about my idea, the experience helped my confidence.
"It was fun putting on the robes and imagining what you would change if you were the Lord Mayor."
