On 20 October, Evie Tazzyman, a 15-year-old Explorer Scout with Gwylanod Explorers in Prestatyn, swapped the meeting place for the debating chamber. She was one of the young people from across Wales taking part in the ScoutsCymru Welsh Youth Parliament at the Senedd in Cardiff, run in partnership with Cymru Global.
The day brought together Scouts, Explorers, Sea Cadets and young people from schools all over Wales. Each participant was given a constituency to represent, and Evie was allocated Bridgend and the Vale of Glamorgan. Before the day she researched the issues facing young people in that area, ready to speak up for them.
A day in the life of a Member of the Senedd
Working in groups, the young people discussed issues affecting young people and youth voice in Wales. They then drafted proposals for changes they believed would improve young people’s lives, before debating and voting on each other’s ideas, just as Members of the Senedd do.
“I have a better understanding of how proposals and decisions are made,” said Evie, “and how difficult it can be to get others to agree on things you are passionate about.”
Throughout the day Evie spoke with several Members of the Senedd, including Becca Martin MS, one of the Members for Clwyd, where she lives, and Heledd Fychan MS, Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport.
New friends from across Wales
For Evie, the highlight was the people. She met Sea Cadets, Scouts and Explorers from all over Wales, mostly from the south but a few from further north, and enjoyed swapping stories about their experiences.
“Meeting new people from all over Wales and developing closer relationships with people in Scouting and other youth groups was the best part,” she said.
Why it matters
Evie believes days like this are vital as young people get closer to voting age. “Events like this show young people that they can get their voices heard,” she said. “We need to know how the Senedd works and that we can help make a difference.”
Would she recommend it? “Definitely. I feel so much more confident speaking about things that interest me. I really enjoyed the day and I think others would benefit loads too.”
Evie’s adventures are not stopping there. Next year she will represent Vale of Clwyd Scouts at the World Scout Jamboree in Poland.
Fancy giving Explorers a go?
Explorers is for young people aged 14 to 18. It is where you take on bigger challenges, lead your own adventures and get opportunities like Evie’s, from youth parliaments and international trips to camping, climbing, paddling and achieving top awards such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the King’s Scout Award.
You do not need any experience to join, just a willingness to try new things.
Want to find out more? Get in touch through valeofclwydscouts.org.uk/explorers and come along to give Explorers a go. We would love to see you.
