From Small Islands to Big Changes: Zahara's Call for Mental Health Reform

In a captivating speech before 300 attendees at the UK Youth Parliament on 6 November, 17-year-old Zahara, a student from Beaulieu Convent Catholic School in Jersey, illuminated the power of small communities to drive significant change. Highlighting the urgent need for improved mental health services, she shared the struggles faced by young people on the island, particularly focusing on long waits for therapy and prolonged neurodevelopmental assessments for conditions such as ADHD and autism.

Zahara emphasized how these challenges are often intensified by social stigma in close-knit communities like Jersey. In an empowering conclusion, she urged for the introduction of more mental health professionals in schools, underscoring that by listening to the youth, a future can be created where everyone feels visible and supported.

Reflecting on her experience at the parliament, Zahara expressed a newfound resolve to pursue a career in politics, inspired by the potential of politics to effect real change. Despite her initial nerves, she managed to convey her message effectively, saying she calmed down by imagining she was speaking to her mother.

This gathering, attended by representatives from Jersey, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, and British overseas territories, aimed to address pressing issues concerning youth, showcasing Zahara’s commendable passion for advocating mental health reform in Jersey. The Government of Jersey is currently developing a new plan to enhance mental health services over the next five years, paving the way for hopeful changes inspired by young leaders like Zahara.