Neala
Youth Assembly Member
My name is Neala. I’m 15 and from County Down. I recently became a new Member of the Northern Ireland Youth Assembly, where I will work with other Members across Northern Ireland for the next two years. Over this time, I hope to achieve a good knowledge of how Stormont and our political system work.
We have recently launched the Big Youth Survey for 2025 which I have promoted in my school. This will create a basis for our mandate for the next two years. I hope in this time we can focus on the economy, specifically cost of living for families and young people. I’m also interested in preparing Northern Ireland for the future, particularly the AI revolution that will impact education and employment.
If I could make one big change for young people in Northern Ireland it would be that there would be a bigger range of options for young people when they leave school. I think too many young people are unsure what lies ahead after the age of 16. Should they continue education and training or look for a job? They are either not aware of opportunities, or do not think there is something that inspires them, or that there are limited places on courses. As a result, too many young people can find themselves with no employment or prospects and this can hold them back for life. To improve this, I believe there needs to be outreach to young people in school focusing on both academic and non-academic pathways. Young people have so much talent in so many areas and the academic route does not suit everyone. We need to create opportunities and jobs that give all young people a chance at a fulfilling career.
As we start on this two-year mandate, I’m most excited about meeting new people, making friendships, debating issues and discussing these with MLAs and Ministers and getting involved in voluntary work through the Youth Assembly. I’m feeling positive about my role in the Youth Assembly and hopeful that we can amplify the voices of young people.
