Rawmarsh student, Curtis Yip, had the opportunity of a lifetime as he spoke in the House of Commons during a recent UK Youth Parliament debate.
The 18-year-old was at the dispatch box as a Member of Youth Parliament for Rotherham.
Curtis is a former work experience student at John Healey MP’s office and concluded a section on the ‘Food for learning bill’ while in the Chamber.
John Healey MP said: “We’re all very proud of Curtis and seeing him speaking from the dispatch box in Parliament was such a special moment.
“He’s worked hard to get this chance and has often been out and about with me talking with people across Rotherham as well as getting experience of what it’s like working in my office in Wath.
“He is a fantastic example to other young people from across the borough and is the first I can remember to get this opportunity – he certainly won’t be the last as I hope other local young people can be inspired and follow in Curtis’ footsteps.”
The UK Youth Parliament is open to 11-18 year olds that have been elected as Members of Youth Parliament by their communities and provides opportunities for young people to bring about social change through meaningful representation and campaigning.
Curtis said: “Speaking in Parliament is an opportunity that doesn’t come around very often, it’s the chance of a lifetime.
“To stand in the same place as all those former Prime Ministers and speak was a surreal but exciting moment.
“I was proud to speak on behalf of young people across Rotherham and would encourage others to get involved in local politics to help change things for the better.”
You can find out more information about Rotherham Youth Cabinet online at www.rotherham.gov.uk/homepage/218/rotherham-youth-cabinet
You can watch Curtis speaking in Parliament below.