Seb Booth is taking on a new and rewarding four-month challenge.
The Mount Hutt College year 13 student will be in the Ministry of Youth Development 2025 Youth Press Gallery.
The 17-year-old said he would be representing the college as he took part in the gallery, which included a three-day programme at Parliament from June 30 to July 2.
He has always had an interest in the media and journalism, so when he saw a social media post calling for applicants, he jumped at the opportunity.
‘‘It was challenging, but pretty rewarding when I found I was successful. It was a pretty thorough application process, I had to submit my CV, showcase examples of previous work.’’
He submitted an NCEA Level 2 internal history paper and a chapter he wrote for last year’s school magazine, as well as an opinion piece ‘‘How well do you think MPs are tackling issues that are important to young people? Do they need to be doing more?’’
Booth is especially excited to network with like-minded people, and to have the chance to sit in the actual press gallery at Parliament, something he thinks will be ‘‘unreal’’.
‘‘Pushing myself out of my comfort zone, particularly when it comes to public speaking and live reporting will be challenging. But I’m ready for the challenge,’’ Booth said.
His interest in the media started when he was younger and listened to the radio dreaming about one day working in broadcasting.
‘‘My interest has grown over time into a genuine passion for media, storytelling, and communication,’’ Booth said.
He sees his media skills and an interest in business leading to a possible career in marketing.
‘‘I think strong media skills are essential in today’s business landscape,’’ Booth said.
As part of the programme gallery, members receive training and support from the Ministry of Youth.
The members are also mentored by former Youth Press Gallery members and current journalists from the Parliamentary Press Gallery.
Booth was one of 20 youth, aged between 16 and 24, chosen nationwide to form the press gallery.
The role begins this month, and runs through until August.
During this time he will be reporting on the work of Youth MPs across the country.
‘‘We’ll be writing profiles, crafting news stories, and even producing video content. It’s a real-world, high-impact journalism experience,’’ Booth said.
There are 123 youth members of Parliament including Rangitata youth member of Parliament, 17-year-old Maevi Fleming from Roncalli College in Timaru.
Youth Parliament is a non-partisan process which was first held in 1994 to celebrate the 20-year anniversary of the lowering of the voting age to 18.
