Young voter from Maassluis urges peers to shape their future through voting
Reham Aal-ajmaya, a young resident of Maassluis, emphasizes the importance of voting, especially for youth. She highlights how local decisions impact daily life and encourages young people to engage in shaping their community’s future through elections.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Reham Aal-ajmaya |
| Location | Maassluis, Zuid-Holland |
| Key Topics | Safety, community cohesion, youth engagement |
| Information Sources | Online, social media, discussions with friends |
| Initiatives Mentioned | Nostalgym (sports activities for youth) |
| Election Focus | Municipal council influence on daily life |
| Publication | Election newspaper (GEM Maassluis) |
The municipality of Maassluis plays a key role in organizing local elections and fostering civic engagement, particularly among young residents. Local governments like Maassluis shape policies that directly affect community safety, youth programs, and cultural integration.
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Read the full translated article below
"Voting is important, especially for young people" – Reham Aal-ajmaya
Reham Aal‑ajmaya from Maassluis is certain: she will be voting today. She has voted before and considers it very important. “Even if you don’t know everything yet, it’s good to make your voice heard,” she says. “There’s almost never a single party you agree with on everything. But there’s always something that suits you.”
Reham primarily gathers her information online and through social media. That works best for her. “Young people are always on their phones anyway. It’s convenient to be able to look something up quickly.” During previous elections, she also discussed opinions and facts with her friends. “Interest in this varies per friend group, but talking about it together helps.”
For Reham, two topics are especially important: safety in the city and bringing people together. She sees that Maassluis is a city with many different cultures. “When you bring people together, beautiful things happen. That also applies to young people. Through activities or events, they get to know each other, new ideas emerge, and friendships are formed.”
According to Reham, it’s especially important for young people to vote. “Decisions are being made now that will shape our future. The municipal council has a lot of influence on our daily lives. Sometimes even more than national politics.”
She is proud of Maassluis. “It’s a nice city, not too big. Many people know each other. There’s plenty to do, and Rotterdam is nearby.” She appreciates that there are initiatives connecting young people, such as sports activities reminiscent of old gym classes (like Nostalgym). “Low-threshold and fun. You bring young people together, and that yields a lot.”
This interview can also be read in the election newspaper.