‘Talented’ Palmer Catholic Academy pupil wins youth election
Bridget Okhioigbe, 14, from The Palmer Catholic Academy, has been voted to represent Redbridge at the UK youth parliament - Credit: Archant
A determined pupil championing volunteering is set to represent the borough’s youngsters.
Bridget Okhioigbe, 14, has been elected as a Member of Youth Parliament (MYP) for Redbridge.
The aspiring lawyer, a pupil at Palmer Catholic Academy in Aldborough Road South, Seven Kings, is hoping to encourage more young people into volunteering through her work with the Youth Parliament.
Bridget, who grew up in Ilford and now lives in Romford, is pushing for Transport for London (TfL) buses to allow uniformed youngsters on board even if they have forgotten their Oyster cards.
Bridget, who also put mental health issues at the forefront of her campaign, said: “I just want to help young people in any way possible and I hope to do so by chairing all Redbridge youth meetings and putting their views forward.”
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MYPs are elected by pupils from schools in the borough.
“I just want to say thanks for all the support and I’m just really focused on youth – I want everyone to know I’m standing for them,” said Bridget.
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She entered the election race after going to a school council meeting and seeing her friend enter.
She said: “It’s just really surreal to be honest, I never thought I could do it. My family are really proud.”
Headteacher Frank Maguire said: “Bridget is as very talented young woman. She presented her manifesto to the whole school at assemblies with great passion and understanding of major political issues that affect both the local and wider communities.
“She fully deserves to be elected and we are very proud of her.”
