YMCA Sydney

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Stories from the Community

The Y Has Developed David As A Leader And A Person

Saturday, 29th May 2010

The Y Has Developed David As A Leader And A Person

David is not your ordinary teenager. He has experienced many challenges in life including full visual impairment, yet he dreams the dreams of any young person and wants one day to have a career in the media.

When David heard about the YMCA’s Youth Parliament program he knew it would be a great opportunity to build his confidence, learn new skills and develop new networks.

Youth Parliament brings together young people from electorates across NSW to develop and debate bills in parliament, under the guidance of prominent State MPs.

Unlike other participants who delivered their bills with the support of notes, David memorised his entire parliamentary speech, something he says was made possible out of the support and confidence gained from his team mates and the training he received.

“I learnt hard skills like speech writing and debating and got a feel for media communications which has really given me the confidence to pursue my dream.

But more than that, I developed lifelong friendships and the confidence of knowing that I can climb any mountain, and that good friends will always step up to help guide the way.

I feel like a leader, I have taken charge of my life and maybe one day I might inspire others to face their challenges and go after their dreams.”

David. Youth Parliament.