City of Whittlesea’s youth mayor and deputy mayor have been announced, leading the new youth council in the first year of their two-year term.
Sixteen-year-old Zachary Melvaine was elected as youth mayor, while 19-yearold Kaynat Virk was elected as deputy youth mayor.
The Youth Council is made up of thirteen members, aged between 12-21 years and will meet monthly to discuss and provide feedback on matters referred to them.
City of Whittlesea chair administrator Lydia Wilson congratulated both on their appointment.
“We are very excited to have our Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor on board, who will take on a leadership role within the Youth Council,” she said.
“The Youth Council will be providing an important voice to Council on matters that affect young people within our community, including health and wellbeing, environment and climate change, employment and education, accessibility and inclusion.”
Zachary and Kaynat both said they were honoured to be elected in their roles.
“Being elected as the youth mayor was an extremely rewarding and humbling experience, knowing that my fellow youth councillors have entrusted my ability in this esteemed role,” Zachary said.
“I am grateful for the trust that my fellow youth councillors have put towards me and will ensure to use the opportunity to its potential,” Kaynat said.
