Three Brisbane students have been awarded significant leadership positions designed to help shape the youth conversation beyond the classroom.
The students from Brisbane Catholic Education schools have taken up the following prestigious youth roles:
National Youth Parliament
Assisi Catholic College, Upper Coomera Year 12 student Jamili Maatouk has been chosen to join the National Youth Parliament where she will represent the Fadden electorate.
As part of her acceptance, she was also awarded with a certificate from Federal Member for Fadden, Cameron Caldwell.
Miss Maatouk was selected from more than 2,200 applicants nationwide, reflecting her commitment to civic engagement and her willingness to advocate for others.
She is the first ever youth member for Fadden.
“In this role I hope to make a positive impact by connecting people together, fostering a supportive and kind environment that people can grow in,” Miss Maatouk said.
“I want to represent my College community in a way that inspires others to believe in themselves and see that they can achieve their goals if they put their mind to it.”
The National Youth Parliament, to be held in Canberra from August 16 to 20, 2026, will empower young Australians from all walks of life with the knowledge, confidence and skills to actively participate in Australia’s democratic and parliamentary system.
YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament
Sophia College, Plainland, Year 11 student Emily Brooking has been appointed Youth Member for Lockyer which will see her contribute to a state-level committee focused on science, innovation, energy and manufacturing.
“I am honoured to be a voice that is trusted to speak on behalf of other people my age,” Miss Brooking said.
“I really hope to be a positive and influential voice, with the goal to produce a bill that is meaningful and can be considered for parliament.”
The Australian Council for Student Voice Student Advisory Board
St Benedicts College, Mango Hill, Year 8 student Bonhee Van Tent said she wanted to ensure student voices were heard, including those who felt anxious about sharing their own.
“I hope to be the person who speaks up for other students and shows that people our age have a voice too,” Miss Van Tent said.
The Australian Council for Student Voice Student Advisory Board is a national body that brings together school-aged students from across Australia to influence the Council’s work and participate in key educational discussions.
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