Hi!
I'm Tallulah and I'm the Youth Mayor of Surrey 2022 to 23. I'm 16 years old and I'm currently in my first year of college studying a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts and I'm going down the musical theatre route. After college I hope to go to drama school (Italia Conti is my dream one) to get a BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre. After this I hope to go into the West End and hopefully become an actress in TV and film alongside.
As mentioned in my manifesto, I really want to raise awareness of mental health in young people, particularly students who are undertaking GCSEs/A levels.
As a student from the 'Class of 2022', I felt incredibly under-supported with my mental health during the GCSE exams period. Alongside being an autistic student which created real barriers to how I processed this stressful time.
As a result of undergoing these challenges, I think that every young person should feel valid in acknowledging how they feel yet expressing how they feel in a safe way. It's 100% okay to ask for help and it's not a sign of weakness if you do. It shows that you're strong enough to find a way how to manage challenges.
This actually leads on well to my next topic, which is that I really want to create a safe space for those with additional needs and disabilities, whether they're not receiving the support that is required for them in their school/college or feeling alienated and unworthy from their surroundings. I believe that absolutely no one should have to feel as if they are unseen or not appreciated, when in reality, we can achieve unbelievable things despite our circumstances. Every young person should be treated equally and our disabilities should be valued just the same and not seen as an inconvenience or something that should be handled.
I also want to focus on the mental health of those in the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe that being part of this community should be a place to celebrate themselves and embrace your individuality, without the judgement of others. However, unfortunately in today's society, the amount of bullying and harassment regarding this area is incredibly alarming and this absolutely needs to change. Being part of this community or not, it should absolutely be a place for every part of you to be welcomed and accepted, no matter your sexual orientation.
I want every single young person to feel like that they are so worthy of a life along with feeling proud and validated to unapologetically embrace their true selves. We seriously underestimate the power that we all have to make incredible contributions and changes.
Want to find out more?
Tallulah talks about mental health support and information for young people with additional needs and disabilities. Have a look at some of the information below if you'd like to find out more:
Category: Young Mayor
