Empowering Young Women: A Call to Action in Local Politics

In an inspiring initiative aimed at encouraging more young women to engage in local governance, North Ayrshire Young People’s Champion Chloe Robertson is leading the charge. With a commitment to fostering a diverse political landscape, Robertson is hosting an online forum aimed at enlightening potential female candidates about their roles in local politics.

Championing Diversity in Local Governance

The upcoming Elect Her and Young Women’s Movement Workshop, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, promises to bring together inspiring women from various political backgrounds to discuss the unique challenges and rewards of being a young woman in local politics. This event highlights a critical issue; research indicates that only 15 percent of councillors in Scotland are aged between 18-44, and even fewer are women, with only 35 percent of councillors being female.

Encouragement from Experience

As someone who was elected in her early 20s, Cllr Robertson aims to share her experiences to motivate and inform younger women aspiring to enter politics. "I’m excited to be sharing my experiences as a young woman in local politics,” she stated. “While I believe we should be wholeheartedly welcoming diversity in the Council chambers, it's crucial for young women to understand the role’s demands and the impact their identity can have." This message serves as a beacon of hope for many who might otherwise feel discouraged from pursuing a political career.

Addressing Concerns and Promoting Participation

The workshop will also tackle the disparities highlighted in the latest Engender report, which notes that 45 percent of women under 55 do not recommend becoming councillors due to prevalent concerns regarding abuse and harassment in politics. However, Cllr Robertson is optimistic, asserting that “there are still so many positive things you can do as a councillor,” emphasizing that genuine care for communities is often the most important qualification.

For young women eager to explore the world of local politics, Cllr Robertson invites direct communication, stating, “If any young women in our communities feel they would love to get involved, please get in touch through my contact email.” This open invitation represents a significant step towards greater inclusion and empowerment.

For more information on this empowering initiative and to join the workshop, interested participants can visit this link.