#MEETBYC Emma-Rain Kirifi

🤔❓ Did you know that Brimbank has a Youth Council? Now you do! It’s with great pleasure to introduce to you our 2021 Brimbank Youth Councillor Emma-Rain Kirifi!

Pronouns: She/Her

Suburb: Hillside 3037

Tell us more about yourself!

I am one of five siblings and I love my family. They are the light and inspiration in my life. I believe in showing up and giving it my all, no matter the results. This belief guides me in many of my choices today. The things that might really keep me interesting are my abilities to speak Estonian fluently (roughly only 1.3 million people speak this language); and perform U.S.A for Africa – ‘We are the World’ effortlessly, while nailing every impression with ease.
I hope to one day become a successful travelling note speaker and/or school counsellor.

Why did you join the BYC?

I decided to join the Brimbank Youth Council to become more involved in the community. I have a passion for working with youth and see this as an opportunity to represent the voices and ideas of Brimbank Youth, especially within the Pacific-Islander community.

What are you passionate about?

Topics that I care deeply about affecting young people and community would be available career development, anti-racism, and religious freedom. I truly believe the youth of today are the future leaders, parents, and teachers of tomorrow. When schools, homes, and councils effectively establish foundations of understanding and tolerance toward varying cultures, beliefs, and ambitions within young people, then will necessary changes and prospering communities inevitably take place long-term.

What are you hoping to achieve as a BYC member this year?

I am hoping to achieve an increased awareness of the resources and services available to the young people and families of Brimbank. I hope that at the end of 2021, more young people know that the Brimbank Council sees them and has something great to offer them regarding their present health and success, and future ambitions. 

What does a better Brimbank look like to you?

When I envision a better Brimbank, I see a community of togetherness and safety. I see a safe place for young people to learn, explore, believe, and socialize. 

What’s one piece of advice you have for young people who want to create change in their community?

The advice I would offer the young people who want to create change is to become the best leader they can be today. There are so much good young people can discover and govern in the community and in themselves, if they take the first step to pay attention, ask questions, and be engaged. I would want them to know that their place in the community matters.