A 15-year-old Scout from Denbigh has experienced Welsh democracy first hand at the Senedd in Cardiff, after being selected as the only young person from North East Wales to take part in the ScoutsCymru Welsh Youth Parliament.
Evie Tazzyman, a member of Gwylanod Explorers in Prestatyn, joined young people from Scouts, Sea Cadets and schools across Wales at the event on Tuesday 20 October. Run by ScoutsCymru in partnership with Cymru Global, the day gave 14 to 18-year-olds the chance to act as Members of the Senedd, researching, debating and voting on the issues that matter to young people in Wales.
Each participant represented a constituency. Evie was allocated Bridgend and the Vale of Glamorgan and researched the issues facing young people there before the event. Working in groups, participants discussed youth voice and other issues affecting young people, drafted proposals to improve young people’s lives, and voted on each other’s ideas.
During the day Evie also spoke with several Members of the Senedd, including Becca Martin MS, one of the Members for Clwyd, and Heledd Fychan MS, Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport.
Evie said: “I have a better understanding of how proposals and decisions are made, and how difficult it can be to get others to agree on things you are passionate about. Meeting new people from all over Wales and developing closer relationships with people in Scouting and other youth groups was the best part.
“As we get closer to voting age, we need to know how the Senedd works and that we can help make a difference. I feel so much more confident speaking about things that interest me, and I think others would benefit loads too.”
Jacob Jones, District Lead Volunteer for Vale of Clwyd Scouts, said: “We are really proud of Evie. Our new strategy, Place to Belong, is about giving young people somewhere they feel welcome and listened to, and helping them become active citizens in their communities.
“Evie did exactly that, speaking up for young people in front of Members of the Senedd and coming home more confident than ever. That is what Explorers is all about, and we would love more young people across the Vale of Clwyd to come and find their place with us.”
Evie will also represent Vale of Clwyd Scouts at the World Scout Jamboree in Poland in 2027.
Explorers is open to young people aged 14 to 18, with no experience needed. Young people interested in joining, and adults interested in volunteering, can find out more at valeofclwydscouts.org.uk/explorers.
