As her term as Altona town council’s youth representative comes to an end, Azeb Kauenhofen is walking away with a deeper appreciation for local government, a stronger connection to her community, and a newfound confidence in sharing her voice.
The Gr. 11 student at W.C. Miller Collegiate admits her journey to council happened almost by accident.
“I didn’t know a lot about it at first,” she said with a laugh. “A friend of mine had done it before and always spoke highly of it. Then my vice principal mentioned it to me, and I thought, ‘Sure, why not?’”
That decision led Kauenhofen into a role that gave her a seat at the council table for the past several months, providing youth perspectives on municipal issues and community initiatives.
While she expected the meetings to be serious, she quickly discovered a welcoming and supportive environment.
“You’re talking about serious things because you’re helping run a town,” Kauenhofen said. “But everyone was so kind and approachable. They made it feel comfortable, even while discussing important issues.”
One of the biggest surprises was realizing just how much responsibility municipal leaders carry.
“They deal with so many decisions that affect everyday life,” she said. “Things like events, pricing, community projects, and services. I didn’t realize how involved council is in making things happen in town.”
As the designated youth voice at the table, Kauenhofen was often asked for her perspective on community matters that impact younger residents. While speaking up didn’t come naturally at first, she gradually grew into the role.
“I’ve always been someone who’s happy with whatever everyone else wants,” she admitted. “At first it was hard to say, ‘This is what I think.’ But eventually I realized that’s exactly why I was there.”
After attending several meetings, she became more comfortable contributing ideas and asking questions.
Her experience also challenged some assumptions she previously held about government and decision-makers.
“As kids, we sometimes look at government and think adults don’t understand what younger people want. But what I found was a group of people who genuinely care. They were already thinking about youth and families when making decisions.”
Rather than feeling like she was there to educate council, Kauenhofen says the experience ended up teaching her just as much.
“It was really validating,” she said. “It was nice to know there are adults who care about what younger people think and who are working hard to make the community better for everyone.”
The role complemented her involvement in student council, where she enjoys helping represent classmates who may be less comfortable sharing their opinions.
“I like being able to help give people a voice,” Kauenhofen said. “Sometimes people have great ideas but don’t necessarily want to speak up. Being able to bring those ideas forward is something I really enjoy.”
Looking ahead, Kauenhofen is considering studies in psychology, social work, or family services after graduation next year. However, her time on council has also sparked an interest in leadership and community-building.
The experience, she shares, has changed how she views her hometown.
“For a long time, I thought I’d graduate and move somewhere else because the world is so big,” Kauenhofen said. “But being involved with council showed me how much work, care, and love goes into this community.
“When you really get involved, you realize how much there is here,” she said. “It’s a great place, and being part of this made me realize I could see myself staying.”
As council prepares to welcome a new youth representative in the upcoming school year, Kauenhofen has simple advice for anyone considering applying.
“Go for it,” she said. “It’s fun, it’s a great learning experience, and you get to meet so many people. It makes you feel more connected to your community.”
Before stepping away from the role, she also wanted to offer her gratitude.
“A huge thank you to council for letting me be part of it,” she said. “It’s been awesome.”
