Claudia Nguyen: A fresh, independent, and motivated young voice for Yarra
Edited by Vivien Yii
As the daughter of Vietnamese refugees who arrived in Victoria and called Richmond public housing home, Claudia Nguyen says that she will always have an immense gratitude to Yarra for taking her family in. Born and raised in Richmond, Claudia has has spent much of her life volunteering and giving back to her local community.
Professionally, Claudia holds a Masters in Engineering from the University of Melbourne and has dedicated her career to working on large scale public infrastructure and transport projects to benefit the community. Her family has run small businesses, organised the local Lunar Festival and served on sport committees in her neighbourhood, and Claudia believes that these experiences have prepared her well to represent her community. This October, Claudia has put herself forward as an independent candidate for Melba Ward in the Yarra City Council elections.
Claudia is also the Secretary of the Melbourne University Women’s Football club and a member of the LGBTI+ Community, and tells us that she can’t wait to host their next Annual Pride game! As the only candidate for Melba Ward in their 20s, Claudia aims to ensure that a diversity of voices are at the table when it comes to decision-making in Yarra City Council.
What inspired you to run for election in the City of Yarra?
My family instilled the importance of community in me, and I’ve tried to live up to that. I’ve led fundraising projects, raising over $250,000 for local hospitals and refugee programs, been deployed to aid and assist in the recovery during the Victorian Bushfire Seasons, and served hot meals with the Vinnies Soup Van in Yarra to those needing extra help.
During COVID-19, I’ve supported my community by managing a group of volunteers to deliver thousands of food parcels to single parents, the elderly, and families who have been affected by COVID-19. I have volunteered to support Richmond Public Housing residents and helped by providing masks, sanitisers, and groceries. I also served as an advisor to the Yarra Public Housing COVID Working group alongside housing residents, local charities and community organisations.
I'm running for local government because it's the level closest to the community and I want to ensure that everyone, particularly young people, have a voice. As the only candidate in their 20s in my ward, I’ll ensure a diversity of voices are at the table. As an independent candidate, I’ll always put community interests before political interests.
What are the key causes and impact areas you are championing?
My focus is on rebuilding our community and leading Yarra’s efforts to recover from the impacts of COVID-19. Investing in local businesses, jobs, our community, and our health will be key.
When it’s safe to do so, I want to bring back life to our streets with a series of pop up festivals, live performances and art installations to support our local businesses. I will champion the creation of jobs for locals by building more parks, libraries and community centres. I’ll transform our infrastructure to reduce traffic congestion, address parking issues, take climate action, promote community safety and sustainable planning. I’ll make sure that we invest in mental health support and community health services to ensure that these assets are culturally appropriate and accessible for all.
If elected, I also intend to give back by donating a portion of my council salary to local charities and community groups.
What is your message to other young people who may have thought about running too?
I want every young person to know that together, we can make a difference. It takes courage to put yourself out there and I look forward to the day when decision-makers truly represent our diverse community and our younger people.
Claudia Nguyen is running as a candidate for Melba Ward in the upcoming Yarra City Council elections. You can follow and support her campaign via:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Claudia4Yarra
Instagram: @Claudia4Yarra
Website: https://www.claudia4yarra.com.au/