The Martlet

From now until Oct. 22, those interested in a chance to be a British Columbia Youth Parliament (BCYP) member for the year are encouraged to submit their nomination forms.

Successful applicants must be aged 16 to 21, and will be notified in early November. A total of 95 youths, both new and returning, will attend the 80th annual parliamentary session at the Legislature from Dec. 27 to 31 this year. As a non-profit organization, BCYP combines parliamentary education and community service to help take direct action within B.C.

UVic student Susie Bowles, who is entering her fourth year with BCYP as Minister of Finance, says BCYP is “the biggest thing that happened to my life.”

“We learn the process that our government goes through, make new friends [and] become more involved in the community,” said Bowles.

BCYP representatives hail from all across B.C. and act as independents in the Legislative Chambers — voting individually without affiliation to political parties. Each year, members experience firsthand the parliamentary process and debate legislation, and get the opportunity to organize numerous projects for the upcoming year.

Five days in December are spent debating a range of issues during intensive 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. sessions which stop only for meals and breaks. The activities BCYP lays out for 2009 will be debated and legislated by Cabinet. In addition to electing a Premier, Deputy Speaker and Leader of the Opposition for the following year, youth parliamentarians also debate local, national and international issues. Bowles said she has made many friends who share her passion for makeing a difference.

Following the parliamentary session, BCYP members present the projects they’ve designed as government bills; the bills that pass are then put into action. This way, BCYP plays an active role in the community and isn’t just a mock parliament.

One of the largest projects BCYP undertakes is Camp Phoenix — an annual, week-long summer camp for 50 children aged eight to 11, who would normally not be able to attend a camp due to social or financial difficulties. Camp Phoenix costs approximately $20,000 to run, which represents over half of BCYP’s annual budget. Every year the camp is held at a different location, but children from anywhere in the province are eligible to attend.

“Most of our energy goes into the camp,” said Bowles. “Every member has dedicated some time [to it].”

Throughout the year, BCYP members organize, fundraise and participate as staff members for Camp Phoenix. The ratio of staff to children is three to five, which allows an adult figure to help a child in need of a listener, teacher or someone to just have fun with. The camp offers children who come from troubled homes a chance to make lasting memories and be a kid again.

Sweet Dreams is one of the largest fundraisers BCYP holds, helping to raise money for Camp Phoenix. The Sweet Dreams event is an auction undertaken with such themes as “Dessert Auction,” “Wine and Cheese” and last June’s “Dinner and Auction.” Most of the proceeds go toward Camp Phoenix, although the money also funds the other projects BCYP tackles each year.

In 2009, BCYP will take on another year of engrossed activities and make a difference in the lives of children and adults alike.  New members choosing to devote their time and efforts to BCYP will see the result of their hard work for years to come.