Joining Childnet’s Youth Advisory Board can help young people make new friends and memories – and gain confidence.
That’s according to Ruqayyah, a previous member of the group which will consist of 10 young people aged 13-16 from across the UK.
This group will have the exciting opportunity to help shape and directly influence Childnet’s resources, messaging, and future campaigns, including planning for Safer Internet Day.
Applications from young people for the new board close on Monday (March 28th), and Ruqayyah believes it is an opportunity not to be missed.
She said: “I think young people should apply because it is a caring environment where you have the chance to make new friends and new memories.
“That’s whilst having the opportunity to be able to have your voice heard, gain confidence and become educated on pressing topics affecting young people.
An incredible experience
“I applied because I wanted to help my fellow young people navigate the dangers of the internet. I wanted a chance to do something out of my comfort zone and meet new people.
“Working with different young people across the UK was an incredible experience that allowed me to become more open-minded, opinionated, and self-assured, all because of their supportive encouragement throughout the project.”
The board will kick off with a three-day trip to London and will subsequently meet regularly online with the Childnet team to share their thoughts and experiences of online safety and the digital world.
Ruqayyah added: “I absolutely loved working with Childnet – they constantly encouraged us to discuss topics openly in a safe, non-judgmental way.
“I felt our opinions were highly valued, along with attending upbeat meetings and a very fun residential, it was a truly unmatched time!”
A passion for internet safety
Anisa, also a former member of the Childnet Youth Advisory Board, added: “Working with Childnet was definitely one of those memorable moments that gave me the opportunity to work with a variety of organisations including becoming an ambassador for BIK Youth.
“It marked the start of my passion for making the internet a safer space, helping me grow in confidence and being able to interact with people all over the UK and now Europe even.”
Find out more about joining the new Childnet Youth Advisory Board by clicking here.
