WHEN high school teenager Jessica Zhang has her chance to share her opinions in front of NSW leaders, she hopes her words will make a difference.
The Beverley Park student was chosen to be part of the 2014 YMCA NSW Youth Parliament.
The popular program attracted more than 300 applications.
YMCA NSW brings together students who represent their electorates.
It gives young people the chance to compose a bill on a topic they are passionate about in the legislative assembly.
Teams work together to develop legislation that aims to overcome concerns they face in their communities.
Jessica will represent the Rockdale electorate in July and will attend a week-long residential camp where she can expand her debating skills.
"My school (North Sydney Girls High) is an advocate for the program, so I tried out for fun, and got in," Jessica said.
The year 11 student who wants to become a lawyer or politician, said she was interested in tackling violence against women and the "drinking culture" among youth.
"There is still a stigma attached to women's actions when it comes to rape where their words don't matter — no means no," she said.
"Early education is key.
"I remember being taught about sexual harassment in primary school.
"I'm concerned about the effects of drinking.
"The 'one punch' stories that cause death is so worrying.
"People are conscious of their actions regardless if they are drunk or not."
Jessica is passionate about celebrating multiculturalism.
"My parents migrated from China and although I spoke English first, they always encouraged me to learn Chinese," she said. "Language barriers exist.
"Being able to embrace Aussie culture but not lose culture is a great thing."
DELEGATES
OATLEY
Gabriella Velevska
Philippa Clark
Tom Davidson-Mcleod
KOGARAH
Nevenko Stankovic
ROCKDALE
Jessica Zhang
