Heerlen Youth Ambassadors launched
The municipality of Heerlen wants to get young people more involved in politics. That is why Heerlen is launching a youth ambassador program. These young people will be able to have a say on important issues in the city. The first meeting was held at the town hall on Monday, January 26. A group of enthusiastic school and university students took part. They talked about themselves and what matters to them.
What issues are important to young people?
- Mental health of young people
- Encouraging peers to exercise
- Cultural offerings in the city
- A safer living environment
For young people, by young people
In Heerlen, we are working with young people to build the future of the city. We have recruited twelve young people to promote events in Heerlen. The youth ambassadors are also setting up their own communication platform that is better aligned with the social media channels of their peers. Heerlen wants to better connect with their world. These ambassadors receive compensation for their efforts and contributions.
Alderman Arlette Vrusch:
“Young people have fresh ideas and a keen eye for their surroundings. The youth ambassadors give them an active role and a real say in issues that affect them. In doing so, they show that young people want to take responsibility for their city. This is how we are building the future of Heerlen together. I am proud of the energy, commitment, and creativity they are already showing.”
What now?
The young people meet regularly and can contribute their own ideas and put them into practice. The first topics already on the agenda are the letters for 16- and 18-year-olds. They are contributing ideas about the youth sports pass. And they are joining crime labs that deal with youth nuisance.
The municipality can make good use of their input on social issues. But also their knowledge about how we can best implement those recommendations. In any case, there is no shortage of ideas and enthusiasm.