Our deeds clerk Yeonsoo Son recently took part in Youth Parliament 2025 as a Press Gallery member

Yeonsoo: "Being part of Youth Parliament 2025 as a Press Gallery member reminded me of how obtuse and exclusive our prisms can be.

While much of the media narratives centred on walkouts, conflict, and political theatre, what was often overlooked was democracy in its most raw and passionate form. I had the privilege of witnessing Youth MPs across Aotearoa unite in their shared commitment to leading the next generation of Kiwis with courage, empathy, and purpose.

At a time marked by rising extremism and ethno-nationalist rhetoric, Youth Parliament demonstrated that unity is not forged through conformity, but from the strength of our differences.

I thank the Ministry of Youth Development, Hon James Meager MP, and everyone who made this event possible. I am honoured to have shared this space alongside 19 other young writers, and I look forward to sharing more stories and reflections throughout the rest of my tenure."