Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (ages 16-25) represent students and young people across Scotland. This year’s election is ongoing- polls will close on Sunday at 6 PM.
By Josh Pizzuto-Pomaco
Read about some of the candidates below:
Aberdeen Central-
Marco Oosthuizen
Key Issues
Poverty and income inequality
Education
Health and wellbeing
"Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts." - Sir Winston Churchill.
“I look at this quote and I think to myself, why do I want to be an MSYP? I have seen many injustices done to many who had no voice. I want to do something that is greater than myself, to make a change and be the difference. Meaningful change no matter how big or how small is still meaningful and for me is a greater achievement.
“I want to be able to serve the youth of Scotland and help them voice their concerns so that the youth of today, of tomorrow and for many more generations to come will be able to have a chance and will be able to say we are being heard because of what those have done for us.”
Niamh McGregor
Key Issues
Rights
Education
Health and wellbeing
“Democracy, politics and government has always been a key interest of mine and I want to be able to encourage people to take advantage of their democratic rights and have their voices heard. I want to be able to help shape our country's future by empowering other young people to put forward their ideas and influence policies that affect young people because we are Scotland's future.”
Mariah Ichakpa
Key Issues
The economy
The environment
Health and wellbeing
“Serving my community has been a defining and deeply fulfilling part of my life, shaping my values, character, and understanding of the world around me. From an early age, I realised the importance of giving back and being an active participant in the well-being of the community I call home. I am running to represent the voices of young people in Aberdeen as an MSYP because I believe in the power of youth to bring about positive change in our communities.
“My actions can make a difference in the lives of thousands of young people in Scotland. I want to be an advocate for policies that address the concerns and aspirations of my fellow youth. I am committed to continuing my journey of service by listening to the voice of every youth and turning their concerns into actions that will empower and shape a brighter future for our lives, city, and Scotland as a whole.”
Aberdeen Donside-
Tyrone Jana
Key Issues
Poverty and income inequality
Education
The economy
“I want to be an MSYP because I feel it is necessary for young people to have a say in the world they are growing up in. I've always been a firm believer in the fact that every decision and matter made by someone who won't be growing up/facing the effects of the changes they've made isn't right. I feel it is important for young people to be at the centre of every decision made that will possibly change their lives and the place they will call home one day.”
Max Dixon
Key Issues
Education
“I want to be an MSYP as I believe that the way we do education is ineffective and that a more open education would be more effective. Make school which is a donating place for some and a place to mess around for others a nice but practical place to be, allowing you to learn in a way that is individual to you making all of your work special instead of just some more work.
“Being a MSYP would allow me to make school less of a panicked chaos into a calmer, more productive environment for you to work the way you feel effective whether that be from a passion or hobby of your or just wanting to try something new.”
Sol Bewley-Lataix
Key Issues
Education
Health and wellbeing
Transportation
“This opportunity interests me as a young person, as it will allow me, a local person, to represent my local community on a national level. Growing up in the regeneration area of Tillydrone, and later on Woodside, I have been a part of the community from my earliest memories. By being a part of the community, I could tell that certain parts of Aberdeen were being left behind public services, school budgets, and even simple things such as quality of road services were inferior to other parts of the city.
“I would like to change this. I intend to pursue politics as a career, and a chance such as the SYP will provide invaluable experience which would benefit me in pursuing such an occupation. Working in this environment would prepare me for a career where I would hope to have a significant, and positive community impact.”
Best Iko-Ojo Abalaka
Key Issues
Poverty and income inequality
Employment
Culture and media
“By becoming an MSYP, I would address the specific needs and aspirations of Scottish teenagers. I'm committed to improving the Scottish education system by advocating for accessible and practical curricula while reducing student debt. Job opportunities, apprenticeships, fair wages, and entrepreneurship support will be top priorities to empower Scottish youth economically.
“Mental health resources and stigma reduction are essential for our well-being. Climate change education and sustainability initiatives will prepare us to protect Scotland's natural beauty. I'll promote youth engagement and representation in Scottish politics and advocate for social justice, affordable housing, internet access, and healthcare tailored to our needs.
“Encouraging community involvement and unity is vital for Scottish teenagers. Together, we can create a brighter future that aligns with our values and aspirations. Your support will enable me to be a strong voice for Scottish youth in the Youth Parliament, making a meaningful difference for our generation.”
All quotes are taken from the SYP's candidate profiles.
More information about how to vote can be found here:
