In this blog series, we ask our alumns to tell us about their personal ‘pathway to politics’ and provide their recommendations for content that will help support, guide, inspire and engage other women on their political journey.
I am 20 years old and live in the Shoalhaven, NSW. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Geography at the University of Wollongong with a focus on human geography and indigenous studies.
My interest in politics came the lack of young people represented in politics at all levels (local, state, and Federal). I want to see this changed because when it comes to decision making about the future it is essential young people are involved as we are the future.
I applied for Pathways to Politics in 2021 after I was selected as a candidate in the NSW local government election. I thought the program would be great opportunity to help develop my leadership and political skills for the election.
The first time I voted in an election, I got to vote for myself.
I believe that one of my biggest accomplishments so far was being involved in my first political campaign in 2021. The first time I voted in an election, I got to vote for myself. Not many people get to do that, and I am quite proud of it. I learnt so much from the election experience and look forward to being a candidate again and hopefully a politician in the future.
Where am I now? Since Pathways to Politics, I have taken on new roles inside the Greens party to continue learning about politics at both local and state level. I am the convenor of the UOW Young Greens, the SDC coordinator and Indigenous officer for the NSW Young Greens and am in the process of setting up a young Greens in the Shoalhaven.
One of the main things I want to focus on in 2022 is inspiring other young people to get involved in politics. Young people are passionate about so many things – from climate change, equality, LGBTQI+ issues, to social change – and politics is where we can make change. That is why it is so important young people are engaged and involved with politics.
I have had so much support in my political journey so far, including my local Greens group, The Shoalhaven Greens. Through Pathways to Politics, I got to meet so many awesome inspiring women leaders who are all creating change. Through the program I was also teamed up with a mentor, Cate Faehrmann (member of NSW Legislative Council) who I have already learnt so much from and will continue in the future. As well as creating some amazing connections through the program I also gained many new skills including public speaking skills, how best to use social media, speech writing, goal setting and more.
My recommendations
Sex, Lies and Question Time by Kate Ellis
Sex, lies, and question time explores life as a woman in Australian politics. You will go through every emotion reading this book from anger, sadness, frustration, and finally a glimpse of hope but most important provides insight into politics.
Jacinda Ardern, A new kind of leader by Madeleine Chapman
Jacinda, an astounding leader and politician that we can all learn something from. This book is not only inspiring, but you will learn something new about been a leader from it.
Youth to Power – Your Voice and How to Use it by Jamie Margolin
Youth to Power is written by a young leader for young people. An insightful and inspiring book that I recommend all young leaders read.
Total Control
A political drama that is totally binge worthy (A weekend will flash before your eyes). Very entertaining and many of the themes in the show are very relatable.
A Podcast of One’s Own with Julia Gillard
Each episode Julia Gillard has a conversation with a female leader from the world of business, politics, media, sport and more. This podcast is both entertaining and inspiring.
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