RECENTLY I was elected as the Youth Mayor of Ealing and this is my first article for Ealing Gazette promoting opportunities for young people to get involved in their community.

My role is to represent young people in the borough of Ealing, and act as link between them and change makers to make sure that their views are represented and taken into account when decisions are being made.

When I talk to young people and ask them about what local issues concern them, they often talk about the lack of activities available after school and during holidays. Well, help is at hand, because there’s loads to do in Ealing!

Futureversity offers free activities and courses over the school holidays to young people aged 11-19 yrs (up to 25 yrs for those with additional needs) who live, work or study in Ealing. With 127 courses available there is almost certainly an activity to suit everyone. As well as having a great day, on 98% of the courses will gain an AQA accreditation for the new skills that you have developed. This will look great on your CV when you are applying to college or

Futureversity is also always looking for volunteers to work with them. Volunteering is a great way to develop a wide range of skills. You can also apply to be on the Youth Advisory Panel meaning you help decide all the activities and promote Futureversity in schools, youth clubs and colleges. To find out more about Futureversity have a look at their website. www.futureversity.org

Another great local project is the Duke of Edinburgh’s award. The DofE is a programme open to young people aged 14-25 wanting to learn new skills and take part in a wide variety of activities. There are three levels to the DofE: bronze, silver and gold. You can start the Duke of Edinburgh’s award at any time you like and it’s a great way to make friends and learn something new.

The DofE is a recognised accreditation, meaning it will also look amazing on your CV.  There are new DofE programmes starting in Ealing from September. To book onto one, or for more information, contact 020 8571 9150 or email dofe@ealing.gov.uk. These are just two of the many projects and activities taking place in Ealing this summer. Check out www.youngealing.co.uk for more information and to find out about all of the other activities going on in Ealing for young people. So make the most of the long summer holiday and keep boredom at bay!

In the meantime if you would like to contact me as youth mayor then you can email me at ealingyouthmayor@yahoo.co.uk, or tweet me, @ym_ealing.