Thirteen students from six different local schools and programs joined Member for Light, Tony Piccolo MP, for a Student Leaders Seminar in Parliament House on Wednesday.
Mr Piccolo invited all schools within the greater Gawler community to nominate secondary school students displaying leadership ambitions.
Students from Gawler Youth Advisory Committee, Gawler and District College, Northern Adelaide Senior College, St Patrick’s Technical College, Trinity College and Xavier College participated.
Mr Piccolo said the seminar builds on the leadership programs schools have developed and introduces real-world experiences from political issues to showcase different avenues students can take to solve problems.
“The students really engaged with the speakers and the feedback has been great in terms of the amount of knowledge they’ve taken away along with their ideas for future pathways,” said Mr Piccolo.
“The guests we had are experts and on top of the game in their respective fields, so students were able to quiz them about their journeys and learn from their stories.
“I want to thank all those who attended and took the time to be part of the seminar.”
Dr Rodrigo Praino, Professor of Politics and Public Policy, spoke about democracy and its inner-workings, local lawyer Natasha Jones discussed how to solve and deal with difficult problems and political process advocate Lauren Conceicao talked about how to make a difference within the political process.
Students were also treated to a tour of Parliament, lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
This continues Mr Piccolo’s work in providing leadership opportunities for future community leaders, including giving students emcee roles at public events and annual forums for leadership students.
Mr Piccolo said he plans to make the Student Leaders Seminar an annual event, and encourages more schools to register their interest for next year’s event.
Schools and community groups are also invited to take advantage of the free tours of Parliament offered, and can enquire with the Light Electorate office on 8522 2878 or email light@parliament.sa.gov.au.