Attention, high school students of Knoxville: Your voice can shape your city's future. The Mayor’s Youth Council is searching for young minds eager to take part in shaping policy and making a lasting impact in their community. Established in 2021, the council functions as a vital platform, enabling students to engage directly with the inner workings of local governance.
Earlier this week, the City of Knoxville announced that applications are open for students looking to serve on Mayor Indya Kincannon’s Youth Council. City’s Youth Engagement Coordinator Emily Norris, who helms the initiative, articulated the importance of youth input in the municipal framework. "It’s important for cities to listen to the young people who are our future workforce, property owners and community leaders," Norris said, according to the city's announcement. The insights from these young visionaries are intended to influence the decisions and policies that will fortify and diversify their communities.
Those willing to participate will grasp the nuances of local government structure and municipal services by attending monthly meetings. The participants are also expected to dive deep into issues they are passionate about, including Homelessness, Violence Prevention, Civic Engagement, Sustainability, and Mental Health and Trauma. Their engagement extends beyond mere discussions, as they translate their activism into tangible community organizing, leadership, and advocacy efforts.
