Published on Friday 27 March 2026
(l-r) Isla Campbell-Mace, Chelzin George, Cllr Richard Burton, Polly Homan and Yakub Maatoug.
The new Members of Youth Parliament for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have been elected.
At a ceremony at Winton Life Centre on Saturday, Polly Homan and Yakub Maatoug were elected to represent the young people of BCP as Members of Youth Parliament.
Chelzin George and Isla Campbell-Mace were elected deputies.
The UK Youth Parliament gives young people a chance to use their voice in creative ways to bring about social change.
The national programme is funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport and delivered by BCP Council.
Polly said “I am absolutely over the moon about being elected. My campaign was run on transport and I am eager to raise awareness about how expensive it is for young people to take transport in BCP. Hopefully, towards the end of my term I can bring about some real changes on this.”
Yakub said: "I am absolutely honoured to be elected. My campaign will focus on the issues of sexual crime in the area and improving mental health provision; hopefully carrying on from what my predecessors did. I'll also aim to tackle job accessibility. I really plan to help all young people in these areas as much as possible and create a better BCP.”
In total, 5492 students from schools across BCP voted for their preferred candidates.
Three schools were awarded certificates for the best turnout - Bourne Academy, Cornerstone Academy and Bournemouth School.
Polly, Yakub, Chelzin and Isla will represent young people who live in the area at a local, regional and national level.
They will attend national events, including the UK Youth Parliament's annual sitting and the annual House of Commons debate.
They will also engage with marginalised groups, organise events, meet MPs, lobby for change, organise campaigns and attend the Council’s Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny meetings as co-opted members.
Cllr Richard Burton, BCP Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education and Skills, attended the results and event and said:
“The passion and awareness young people across BCP have shown in standing, campaigning and voting has been inspiring to see.
“Encouraging young people to engage in politics is vital; a great way to help them flourish and grow and make sure they have real influence on the decisions affecting their local area.
“I look forward to working with Polly, Yakub, Chelzin and Isla - being held to account for the work we do and understanding what is important to them and the young people they now represent.”