Give youth a seat at the table: Town Councils should follow Belize City’s lead

By Zoila Palma:  The Belize City Council’s Youth Shadow Council is an initiative that other municipalities across Belize should seriously consider adopting. As the council launches its 2026–2027 cohort, the program provides a strong example of how local governments can actively prepare young people for leadership, civic participation and future public service.

Rather than limiting youth involvement to occasional events or consultations, a Youth Shadow Council gives young people an opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of how municipal government operates. Participants can learn about the responsibilities of the Mayor and councillors, observe decision-making processes, take part in community initiatives and develop communication and leadership skills.

Youth Shadow Councillor Avery Young recently described the experience as an important step in becoming a better communicator and leader within his community. Following a 36-hour training session, Young commended the Belize City Council and Mayor Bernard Wagner for creating the opportunity, highlighting the value of learning, mentorship and working alongside other young leaders.

“It is my honor to be apart of something bigger than myself. I have been blessed with the knowledge and discernment to be positioned in places of high importance. I have completed the first step of becoming a better communicator and leader within my community, whilst adapting the professional approach from Dr. Dionne Chamberland,” Young said.

The success of the initiative should encourage other town councils to follow suit.

Municipalities in Cayo, Orange Walk, Corozal, Stann Creek and Toledo could establish their own Youth Shadow Councils, giving young people in places such as San Ignacio and Santa Elena, Benque Viejo, Orange Walk Town, Corozal Town, Dangriga and Punta Gorda similar opportunities to become involved in local government.

The program could be structured around actual council portfolios, allowing young participants to shadow councillors responsible for areas such as infrastructure, sanitation, finance, sports, tourism, youth development and community affairs.

They could attend council meetings, participate in projects and consultations, and learn about the day-to-day responsibilities involved in running a municipality. This would provide valuable preparation for those who may one day seek elected office or other leadership positions.

Belize City has shown what is possible.

Now, other town councils should embrace the initiative and make youth participation in local government a broader national effort. 

Preparing future mayors, councillors and community leaders should begin long before election day.

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