Anna carries banner for youth | Auckland News | Local News in Auckland

The head girl of One Tree Hill College thinks the key to the future is empowering people her own age, reports Hannah Sanders.

When Anna Zhang was 8 she hoped to be President of the United States one day. Then she found out she'd have to be born there to do that, so she had to modify her ambition.

Now 18, she is head girl of One Tree Hill College and still aims high. Her mother is from Cambodia, a former French colony, and Anna is fascinated by everything connected to France. Becoming France's ambassador to the United Nations ... that would be a dream come true for the student.

As she is so interested in politics, Anna has kept an eye on national and regional affairs, looking out especially for topics related to young people like herself.

Results so far have been mostly disappointing because politicians seem  to address mainly adults and this is of great concern to Anna. In her opinion, it's up to the politicians, the media and wider society to give room for youth development and participation.

This means there would be more focus on matters that affect young people and their future; for instance, youth representation or climate change.  How can young people decide who to vote for when they have no information about who will support their interests best? she says.

On the other hand, integration of young people into politics also means  encouraging them to vote. They themselves must "be loud enough"  to make politicians listen to them.

Anna is convinced teenagers can  change the way things are going. She believes  there are young people like her who want to be actively involved in politics.  This applies in particular to those over 18 as they are allowed to vote, but Anna also points out that  there is no age limit on campaigning.

Anna hopes politicians will take more time to listen to  young people and she will keep trying to make sure their voices are heard. "Auckland is one of the youngest cities in the world," she says. "Generation Y will have to clean up the mess when it's our turn to take the stage."

Can teens

There are ways for young people to become active in politics. Anna is a member of the United Nations Youth Association of New Zealand and of the Rotary Youth Club.

This year, she was elected to the new Manukau Youth Council. The organisation comments on the council's policies, advises politicians on issues that affect young people and helps to plan events. By offering this kind of active contribution, the Youth Council aims to create a sense of belonging and community.

As the committee notes on its website, it wants to "act as a bridge between the council and its youth".