YOUNG people from across Carmarthenshire came together on April 10 at County Hall for the Carmarthenshire Youth Council’s Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The meeting provided an opportunity to share the Youth Council’s achievements over the past year with County Council Elected Members, Managers, and Heads of Service within the Education and Children’s Services department.
Highlights from the past year included the launch of the Never Silence the Violence domestic abuse project and Our Voice, which brought real-life learning into schools. Evie Somers was also recognised for representing Wales in the UK Youth Parliament.
Owain Lloyd, Director of Education and Children, officially opened the meeting, followed by Cllr. Aled Vaughan Owen, who spoke about the ongoing collaboration between Carmarthenshire County Council’s Executive Board and the Youth Council. Cllr. Carys Jones closed the AGM by highlighting the importance of continuing to raise young people’s issues at both local and national levels.
Outgoing chairperson Magda Smith, aged 18, led the meeting and reflected on her time with the Youth Council: “I feel incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together. I’ve grown not only as a leader but also as a person.
“Most importantly, I hope I’ve made a difference by helping young people feel heard, empowered, and inspired to create change.”
Following the AGM, the new Youth Council Executive Board for 2025 was announced:
- Toby Bithray – Chairperson
- Ben Bantock – Vice Chairperson
- Evie Somers – Secretary
- Samuel Kwan – Treasurer
- Zach Davis – Communications Officer
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language, Cllr. Glynog Davies said: “Working alongside the Youth Council helps ensure that the voices of young people are not only heard but acted upon in shaping Carmarthenshire’s future.
“Their ideas, energy, and determination to make a difference are exactly what we need in local government and we will continue to strengthen this partnership to help shape a brighter future for everyone.”
If you’d like more information or are interested in joining Carmarthenshire’s Youth Council, visit Carmarthenshire Youth Council – Youth Sirgar.
