Elena Ruddy

Candidate Statement: I am a member of the sixth form at Ysgol Gyfun Gŵyr. I am applying to be a member of the Youth Parliament because, in the wake of the pandemic and the last two turbulent years, giving young people a strong voice is more important than ever.

Ensuring the rights and the future of children and young people is very important to me. I am the South Wales Chair of the Children's Commissioner for Wales' youth advisory panel and through my experience on this panel I have developed the skills needed to be an effective member of the Youth Parliament.  

I have written articles for various magazines and blogs, including the charity 'Children in Wales', and have had the privilege of speaking on panels and meetings such as 'Women's Equality Network' about the rights of women and young people, which has developed my public speaking skills. I have helped run children's rights workshops across south Wales and have been an active member of the children's and women’s rights group at my school for five years.

If elected to the Youth Parliament, I will want to hear your views, so that you can highlight the issues that are important to you. You will be able to contact me directly, not only through the school but also through specific Twitter and Instagram accounts.