Timi and Noah of Hackney Youth Parliament reflect on what the group has achieved over the last year, in this festive message:

“What a year it’s been! 2025 brought loads of events, opportunities and moments of experience.

Our year started with another mention at the Hackney Youth Awards, with multiple people from Hackney Youth Parliament winning individual awards as well! This was after continuing our ‘Let Us Have A Say’ campaign from 2024 and being dedicated to making sure young people have a voice in decision-making.

In 2025, we planned, organised and hosted our first ever LGBTQIA+ Pride Event at the end of June. It was a very fun event and an excellent logistical learning experience for next year.

This year saw a return of the Pack To School appeal to ensure young people starting secondary school in September 2025 would have brand new school supplies to start Year 7 as securely as possible.

HYP also had our annual residential in August, which was filled with team building activities and cool group memories.

In July, members of HYP started working on their manifesto pledges for the 2025-2027 Youth Leader elections. Candidates spent the summer and September planning for and filming our campaign videos and a Hustings event was held in early October. This kick-started the campaign process, which continues until the beginning of November. 6 Leaders and 4 Deputies have been elected, and we can’t wait to work on the Leaders’ and Deputies’ manifestos in 2026!

Throughout the autumn term, we planned our annual Black History Season event, which took place in November. This was very successful and an excellent final event of the year.

As we move into 2026, we’re focusing on YOF, while also planning events and long-term projects for the coming year. We’re very excited to see what will unfold in 2026 and hope this year was eventful, rewarding and full of experiences to carry over into the new year.

Happy holidays and see you all in 2026!”

Noah

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“2025 is coming to a close and the memories will always have a place in our hearts!

May 2025 was the year that I joined Hackney Youth Parliament! At first, it was scary, yet all the members were kind and welcomed me with love and support!

In June 2025, we hosted an event based on LGBTQIA+ month which we hosted a presentation, scavenger hunts, art and more! It intertwined various aspects of identity and created a meaningful space where we celebrated LGBTQIA+ individuals while supporting them in each and every way possible.

Around August 2025, we had packed up back-to-school bags for students who were going into year 7 but had no access to get new stationary etc for school! We were able to make a significant impact.

In November 2025, there was an event , “Black History Season.” Those who went had celebrated Black History culture where food, dancing, laughter and music had bonded everyone to a common ground. It was a success, with many people enjoying the lively atmosphere.”

Timi