Why You Should Join EYPUK

If you’re reading this, you’re probably the kind of person who wants more out of life than just ticking boxes and following the crowd. You want to challenge yourself, meet inspiring people, and actually make a difference. And that’s exactly why you should join the European Youth Parliament UK (EYPUK). I’m not exaggerating when I say EYPUK changed my life - and it can change yours too.

Let’s be honest: most extra-curricular activities are good, but few are truly transformative. EYPUK is different. 

Here’s why:

1. You’ll Discover Strengths You Never Knew You Had

Before EYPUK, I thought public speaking was for ‘other people.’ The confident ones. But standing up in the General Assembly, where all the committees gathered to debate the topics at hand, I found my voice. And I saw the same transformation in others. EYP doesn’t just teach you to speak; it teaches you to be heard. You’ll leave with a level of confidence that spills over into every part of your life - interviews, presentations, even everyday conversations - and this is what makes EYP so powerful. It’s not just about debating policy or drafting resolutions; it’s about discovering the strength in your own perspective and learning how to share it with the world. Joining EYPUK gives you more than skills — it gives you the belief that your voice matters.

2. You’ll Learn to Lead, Not Just Follow

EYPUK isn’t about memorising facts or reciting speeches. It’s about tackling real issues - climate change, digital privacy, human rights - and working with a team to find solutions. You’ll learn to listen, negotiate, persuade, and inspire. These aren’t just ‘nice-to-have’ skills; they’re the skills that set leaders apart. If you want to stand out from the crowd, this is where you start.

3. You’ll Build Friendships that Last

The people you meet at EYPUK aren’t just 'contacts': they’re friends, who will be by your side for years to come. Whether its late-night heated debates, inside jokes or signature EYP events such as ‘Eurodessert’ - a buffet of cakes and sweets from across Europe - you’ll form memories that you’ll never forget. These are the moments that turn acquaintances into best friends, and you’ll find yourself part of a community that supports and inspires you for years to come.

4. You’ll See the World Through New Eyes

EYPUK brings together people from every corner of the UK and beyond. You’ll hear perspectives you’ve never considered, challenge your own assumptions, and gain a global outlook. In a world that’s more connected - and indeed more divided - than ever before, developing the ability to listen, empathise, and engage thoughtfully through EYPUK is invaluable.

5. You’ll be Part of Something Bigger

You might be thinking, ‘I’m not intelligent enough,’ or ‘I’m too shy.’ Trust me, EYPUK is for everyone. You don’t need to know everything about politics. You just need curiosity and an open mind. EYPUK is about growth, no matter where you’re starting from. It’s about daring to dream, to lead, and to make your mark on the world. The skills, friendships, and memories you gain will stay with you long after the session ends, shaping who you are and who you’ll become.

And here’s the truth: opportunities like this don’t come around often. The skills, the friendships, the memories - these are things you’ll carry with you long after the session ends. The world needs your voice, your ideas, and your passion. Whether you want to change it or change yourself, EYPUK is the place to start. Your future self will thank you.

Teambuilding at the EYPUK Summer National Session, 2024

Written by Shaina - member of EYPUK and attendee of The Hague International Session 2025