Seven young Phoenix residents have been appointed as our Youth Council members for 2022-23!
Over the next year the council will meet with Phoenix teams to give their ideas and shape planning across different areas of the business including their four chosen themes:
• crime and safety
• cost of living
• mental and physical health
• opportunities for young people to tackle isolation and support futures.
We caught up with some of the new recruits to find out more about them and hear about what they’re looking forward to over the next year...
Luke
“I enjoy working in a team with other young people and finding solutions to problems in society as well as the minor problems that most people don’t look out for.”
Hussein
“I’m in sixth-form studying maths, business and geography. After my studies, I’m hoping to pursue a Degree Level apprenticeship in Technical Solutions. I decided to become a council member as I want to gain new experiences. I’m currently a Youth Football Coach for one of the Phoenix Community Chest project Sports Fun 4 all and want to develop my skills as a young leader. As a council member I want to try and make a difference and improve the local community.”
Zainab
“I’m currently in sixth-form studying Business, French and Maths. My passion is acting but I thinking of studying Finance and Accounting at University. I feel like its important for me to make changes in my community so that we have a chance of improving our area for our residents. I have the potential to bring m unique ideas to the table as a council member and make sure young people are engrained in Phoenix’ future direction. I like the idea that we young people can be the cause for change in our community. AS a council member I hope to grow as a person and gain new information.”
Daniela
“I’m currently in college studying art and design and I hope to go to university to further studies or start a career in teaching. I wanted to become a member last year, but I didn’t feel ready, I was too shy. Now that I’ve got more confidence, I feel that I can do it. I’m passionate about young people’s issues and creating more activities for people my age to get involved with; we need spaces where we can be creative and come together.”
Brandon
“I just graduated from Ravensbourne Uni in Digital Film Production I and I hope to pursue a career as a screen writer in the film and television business. I also write articles for a sports website on the world of boxing and MMA. I decided to become a council member because I’m on a mission to accept every opportunity that comes my way. My goal is to make connections that will enhance my career and make a positive change for my community and peers. I’m excited with like-minded individuals to make a positive impact.”
Michael
Zhane - Phoenix Youth Council Assistant
"After enjoying being a member last year, I'm ready for a new challenge as the Phoenix Youth Council Assistant! It hasn't fully settled yet due to it being so early in the second year of the Youth Council but it feels good so far. I feel like I have a bit more of a facilitator role within the group. I look forward to learning new skills and supporting my peers."
Dinah
"I'm currently studying Biology, Chemistry and Maths A-levels. Having recently become a Phoenix resident, I am excited to have this opportunity and a voice in what my housing association is doing and representing the younger demographic of residents. I hope to positively impact the community that I'm so proud of!"
While the team for this year’s council has now been decided, you can still get involved with our Youth Leadership Programme, #BEin, find out more here.