Adi Shirlal: Youth MP - New Lynn

Tuesday, 6th May 2025 at 3:00pm

Congratulations to Green Bay High School student Adi Shirlal (Yr 13) who has been selected by New Lynn MP Paulo Garcia as his Youth MP.

Every three years, the Ministry of Youth Development provides an opportunity for teenagers aged between 16 - 18 to step into the shoes of an MP. Those selected gain leadership skills, learn how to influence decision making and have their voice heard about issues important to them.

The Youth MP program expands over four months. In July, Adi and up to 122 others will be representing their MPs at Parliament in Wellington, taking on their roles for two days including being part of the debate chamber to voice their opinions on issues important to them.

As a Youth MP, Adi says he wants to use the opportunity to do as much good for New Lynn, and New Zealand, as he can. MP Paulo Garcia will be posting updates about Adi’s journey on his social media accounts.

“I applied to be a Youth MP in order to be able to represent my community at a national level, says Adi.

"I have a passion for service, and having the chance to stand for my electorate in Parliament is incredible."

In an announcement on social media in late April, New Lynn electorate MP Paulo Garcia chose Adi Shirlal as his Youth MP. He said in a video posted to his Facebook and Instagram that he chose Adi “because of his commitment to helping others” which he does by volunteering “at the RSA and with the elderly at Avondale Lifecare retirement home. He’s also a leader in the Cadets, and at his high school.”

Paulo’s social media account has published two videos where Adi explained why service is so important to him. Adi says he “received a lot of support throughout my life and have had a lot of opportunities open up for me in New Zealand. … Because of how great my community has been to me; I’m driven to give back to my community."