Joseph Xulué’s essay has been chosen as the winner out of 16 entries received. “I was very impressed by the calibre of entries we received,” says Mrs Wong, the MP for Botany.
“There are obviously some very thoughtful and passionate youth living on our patch. It was a really hard job for myself and the editor of the Times to decide on a winner.
“What came through in Joseph’s entry was that he had done his research into the Botany community and the issues that affect us as a community. He will be a formidable Youth MP.”
Times editor Darren Risby adds: “It was great to see so many young people put so much hard work and thought into their entries.
“I would like to thank everyone who entered. It looks like there are plenty of aspiring politicians out there, which bodes well for the future.”
Joseph, who attends Sancta Maria College, is delighted he’s going to be Mrs Wong’s Youth MP.
He told the Times: “This is an opportunity and a privilege for which I’m truly grateful. I see this as a way in which to learn more about New Zealand politics and its nuances, but also learn about ways in which I can contribute effectively to society.
“It is truly an honour to be chosen as I am assured others who applied were just as deserving as I was, and I look forward to heading down to Parliament in due course.”
Sancta Maria College principal Paul Daley adds: “Joseph is an outstanding young man. He is confident, articulate and has extremely high moral and social values.
“He has natural leadership ability and will represent the area with a strong sense of purpose.”
Joseph will have the use of Mrs Wong’s office during his trip to Wellington and take part in the youth parliamentary session, which is provisionally planned for July.
