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Change is going to happen whether we like it or not. The question is: how can we shape that change so that it is good for us?

Participating in the democratic process is the best way you can create the world you want to see.

Let’s look at some of the ways that young people can engage in politics and make democracy work for them.

Be the change you want to see in the world

Many young people feel let down by politicians.

As a result, they have been inspired by the old saying “if you want to do it right, you’ve got to do it yourself” and have applied it to building the society they want to live in.

How are they doing it?

Volunteering for charities and NGOs

There are charities and NGOs that perform all sorts of jobs in our society. There are organisations devoted to improving healthcare, preserving the environment, helping the homeless, supporting women and children, or welcoming migrants.

Active membership in a group or association

Local groups and associations are great ways to help people in a community connect with each other. These groups may organise community events like fetes and markets, bring people suffering from ill health together, or support the local sports team.

Participating in fund raising

Not everyone has the time to commit to active participation in charities and groups. That doesn’t mean you have nothing to contribute. Every effort needs money, and helping to raise those funds is an important job. You might ask your friends and relatives to sponsor you for a fun run or read-a-thon.

Running for political office

Even if you are too young to vote in regional and national elections, you can still get directly involved in school politics. Schools in Northern Ireland have school councils which are groups of students who advise the administration on student issues.

Why just vote for your friends? Why not run for a position on the school council yourself? You can then help shape your school in a meaningful way.