Angelina eyes a career in politics

Angelina Dicenso

The Weekender recently had the pleasure of speaking to a future Penrith Councillor - Year 12 student at Emmaus Catholic College, Angelina Dicenso.

Angelina is one of 23 students in the state chosen to attend the NSW Schools Constitutional Convention in Canberra in 2026.

"I really want to attend the NSW Schools Constitutional Convention because it will broaden my understanding of Australian constitutional matters and build my civic voice so that I can bring the skills and knowledge back to my community, where I can further teach other young people," Angelina explained.

"It will also be a really great opportunity to meet other like-minded young people who want to extend their knowledge of politics and the Australian Constitution."

The future politician first realised her passion for politics and advocacy in her first year of high school.

"When I started Year 7, I was encouraged to do public speaking and debating, and I think that sparked that passion within me. I was also able to be part of the Youth Parliament program, which further flamed this passion," Angelina said.

"After school, I plan to go to university to study a Bachelor of Law and Political Science so that it gives me the knowledge to move into politics. I would also like to continue doing advocacy work throughout uni.

"My first goal would be to go into Council to start that political career."

Angelina has had a few role models to inspire her on this path.

"My parents are amazing leaders and amazing people. My spark for helping people came from them because they taught me to help others and be a good person," Angelina stated.

"I also have role models at school - I strive to be like a lot of my teachers."

At school, Angelina has also taken on the role of Social Justice Leader.

"I support different networks including people with disabilities - which is also something I covered in Youth Parliament. That has been one of my biggest focuses," the young leader explained.

"This year, I've also tried to speak out for people with mental health issues because I think that's a very important matter, especially in today's youth. I really want to be able to make a difference in that Parliament, and now the NSW area."

Marketing and Communications Officer at Emmaus Catholic College Chantelle Gordon expressed pride in the dedicated student.

"Angelina is the first student at Emmaus to be accepted into Youth Parliament, and now the NSW Schools Constitutional Convention. As you can imagine, we are very proud of her," Gordon stated.

"She is such a studious student, she works very hard, and she's so dedicated to making a difference in our community."