A group of three young people addressed Councillors in this week’s full council meeting to speak about their involvement in the city centre masterplan.
The young people came from a group of thirteen who worked with professional theatre practitioners and visual artists during the summer and October school holidays to inform design teams of the needs of young people.
During the holiday activities, the young people discussed the thoughts and opinions of 8 primary schools and 2 secondary schools who have been engaging with the consultation process since September 2021.
The work of the group has provided a valuable insight to the thoughts of young people about the changes to the city and it is hoped that they will be able to see their contributions in the proposed changes to the city and beach.
The group previously presented at an event at North East Scotland College for World Children’s Day, which focused on the rights of the child and their rights to having an opinion and being heard and gave the young people the confidence to present to the full council today.
Lily Mya, 3rd Year at Bridge of Don Academy said: “Young people don’t really get a chance to have their say and it is good to be able to share our views.”
Lara, 3rd Year at Oldmachar Academy said: “I’m excited to be here because kids don’t often get the chance to speak to important people about the city centre.”
Aberdeen City Council Education Convener Councillor Martin Greig said: “It is important to hear the voices of young people. I am grateful to them for speaking out on issues that matter to them and to the city.”