I first heard about the Youth Cabinet through my school. I decided to apply because I wanted to help out and have my views heard in the community, plus give young people in the county a strong voice.

To stand for election I had to make a short film video introducing myself and the campaigns I was interested in..I focused on the importance of technology in schools and the sale of fast food in schools, because I think obesity is becoming a real issue. Voting began and I had to wait two weeks to hear if I’d been elected - it was quite tense! The results were announced at County Hall and I felt really happy when they read out my name. We went out for dinner that night to celebrate.

We have Youth Cabinet meetings once a month. I only knew one of the other Cabinet members before I joined but I’ve made really good friends with everyone else. We went on a residential course together at the beginning and we all got on really well straight away. Our role as Cabinet members is to let decision makers know how the young people in East Sussex feel about issues that affect them. We’ve been to County Hall to speak with the County Council. We’ve also held talks with the police, the Transport Minister and MPs.

I really enjoyed making the campaign video for my election. It was also really interesting to get the results back from the Big Vote and find out what issues young people in East Sussex care about. The worst bits are that there’s lots of meetings to go to which can be quite difficult to manage, but I’m really enjoying it and I’m still finding the time to do my school work.

Being in the Youth Cabinet has helped develop my public speaking and debating skills .I’d like to be a pilot, or to go into broadcasting in the future so I think the confidence I’ve developed through the Youth Cabinet will definitely help me.

William Shears, aged 15, represents Priory, Ringmer and Chailey Schools.

Would you like to be in the Youth Cabinet? Apply now! Find out more at Stand for election to the Youth Cabinet in the Big Vote