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Rowans micro internship at RJ Working!

During my internship with RJ working I was tasked with creating a report on young people’s political participation in the UK. My research was based around increasing youth participation (particularly amongst students who wouldn’t normally engage in politics), while ensuring that the projects were suitably meaningful and non-tokenistic. I analysed existing literature on youth participation, and then applied the theories I found to different youth councils and young people-led initiatives. This allowed me to better understand what successful youth participation looks like in practice. From this analysis I sketched out 10 guiding principles of youth participation, which will inform RJ’s work in creating a new youth council in Penryn.

I really enjoyed creating this report and supporting the Penryn youth council project, as I am really passionate about increasing young people’s engagement with politics. It was very rewarding to be able to help create new opportunities for young people to have their voices heard in Penryn. Throughout my internship with RJ I have had so many great opportunities to connect more with the local community, and learn about the many different youth and climate initiatives taking place in Cornwall. This has been really inspiring, and I am glad to have had the opportunity play a role in these initiatives through my research.

Throughout my internship, I also had the opportunity to attend online training sessions on restorative justice. I learned a lot about how restorative principles can be used in day-to-day life, particularly in schools and campaigns about the climate crisis. The training was really mentally stimulating and challenging, I enjoyed learning from other participants during discussion periods and linking our ideas to my own interests. I will definitely continue to think about the topics we raised, and will apply them to my future work.

Overall I have loved my time with RJ working, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to take part in such a positive community campaign!