By Bonny Burrows
If the leaders of Cardinia Shire’s Youth Council are anything to go by, the future is in good hands.
As mayor and deputy mayor of the inaugural council, Mehdi Ahmadi and Prachi Beniwal are helping shape the future of the community they now call home.
It’s a big feat for two teenagers who were not born locally or even in the country.
Prachi, 15, was born in India while Mehdi, 17, had quite the journey moving to Australia in 2015.
However, they say their focus is not on their pasts, but rather on making the most of the opportunities presented, not only for themselves but for Cardinia Shire’s other young people.
“I was given such a great platform as a member of the youth council that I want to make as much use of it as possible,” Prachi said of her decision to run as deputy mayor.
Mehdi said he put his hand up for mayor as he wanted to help grow a community that had been so supportive to his family.
“I came here as a refugee and everyone was so welcoming. I made friends on the first day,” Mehdi said.
Together the pair will for the next year lead the nine-member youth council through a range of projects during aimed at driving change within the shire.
The environment, education and improving crime and public safety are just some of the areas the young people would like to see change.
Mehdi has a particular desire to increase awareness around family violence, and the need for affordable housing, while Prachi would like to see an inclusive community for all, regardless of race.
Both said they were keen to hit the ground running with their fellow councillors on a string of projects in a variety of fields.
The youth leaders also welcomed members of the community to contact them to discuss issues of concern.
Cardinia Shire councillor Michael Schilling, who was the brainchild behind the youth council, said Mehdi and Prachi were the perfect choices to represent the shire’s youth.
“I think we’ve got some budding politicians here,” Cr Schilling said.
