A BUDDING politician has been elected to the UK Youth Parliament – despite only putting herself up for election two days before voting.

Fifteen-year-old Zoni Asif, from Kempshott, Basingstoke, is the new MYP for Basingstoke, Winchester, and Eastleigh.

The Aldworth Science College pupil said she wants to use her two-year term to give young people their say.

Her three-point action plan is to help “change the stereotypes of young people in the media”, “get the youth voice heard as importantly as adults”, and “help youngsters shape their future the way they want to”.

Zoni, who is sitting her GCSE exams this month before moving to Peter Symonds College to study politics, economics, modern history, and philosophy, said she hopes being a MYP will help her to forge a career in politics.

“One of the reasons I went into politics is because I think that if you want to change, you can’t stand there and expect it to change,” said Zoni, who was elected on March 28 following an online vote.

It was only two days before the vote opened that she decided to stand, and she sealed her win with campaigns at Aldworth and Testbourne Community School, in Whitchurch.

“Campaigning is quite an experience,” she said. “I like public speaking. I have done it before and don’t get nervous.”

The UK Youth Parliament is open to students between 11 and 18 years old and MYPs are not tied to any political party.

Aldworth headteacher Denis McCabe said he was proud of Zoni’s election.

He said: “Zoni is our head girl and is an excellent ambassador for the school. Her inter-personal skills and personality make her an ideal choice for a Member of the Youth Parliament. I was delighted she was elected."

Mr McCabe added: “Zoni is a dedicated student who listens to the views of others. This is an excellent opportunity for her and she will be a great representative for young people.”

If anyone wishes to get in touch with Zoni about youth parliament issues, email zulnorainasif@hotmail.co.uk