Saarah Ozeer: Your voice matters
Edited by Vivien Yii
Saarah Ozeer is a social justice and human rights advocate who is dedicated to numerous causes, both in Australia and globally. From a young age, Saarah has been committed to advocating for the voices of her community. This continued dedication has inspired her to run as a candidate for Tarralla Ward in the Maroondah City Council elections, an area located in eastern Victoria and on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation.
Professionally, Saarah is an entrepreneur and businesswoman, with a background in law, health and business development. She is also a passionate volunteer who has actively assisted and worked on a variety of causes with diverse communities. She has advocated for human rights and education reform issues, contributed to community health and wellbeing initiatives, and supported her local sporting clubs and organisations.
With experience as a community advocate and leader for organisations ranging from local councils to global NGOs like the United Nations, Saarah has a vision to represent the needs and voices of her diverse and growing community of Maroondah.
“I was inspired to run for local government to ensure that the voices of our diverse and vibrant communities, including our young people, are heard and represented in all levels of government and leadership positions.”
What inspired you to run for election in Maroondah City Council?
I love the diversity that Maroondah represents, its vibrant mix of local businesses, access to great recreational facilities, range of educational institutions, and beautiful trails and parks. Our resilient and vibrant community is dealing with some very challenging times and local government will be influential in its recovery.
I was inspired to run for local government to ensure that the voices of our diverse and vibrant communities, including our young people, are heard and represented in all levels of government and leadership positions.
What are the key causes and impact areas you are championing?
I have a vision to work together with our diverse community and bring out the best in Tarralla, for both residents and local businesses.
I would use my position to support initiatives to boost sustainable economic development and social innovations for our businesses, youth, and wider community. I would advocate for the improvement of support and delivery of affordable, high-quality and accessible education, health and support services to our area to create a safer, healthier and more active community. I would also promote the growth of sustainable communities through the protection of our local environment, including the development of sustainable public spaces.
What is your message to other young people who may have thought about running too?
It is important to have diverse and inclusive representation within our councils. Now more than ever, community voices - including young people's voices - need to be heard in order to make our communities a positive and great place to live.
So, if you are passionate about supporting and working with your local community to advocate for positive outcomes and champion causes that you care about, running for local council will give you the opportunity to do this. You will be able to connect with your community and be in a position to continue your community advocacy in partnership with amazing local community organisations, groups and programs.
You have the power to support, create and inspire positive change.
Saarah Ozeer is running as a candidate for Tarralla Ward in the Maroondah City Council elections. Close of voting is this Friday 23 October, 6pm. You can follow Saarah and support her campaign at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saarahformaroondah/
Instagram: @SaarahForMaroondah
