From the age of two (Chesterfield, 1992!), I have campaigned extensively for the Party. I am at my happiest out campaigning, listening to people, and spreading the Labour message.
The world is moving on. Crucial policies discussed and passed today will have a profound impact on my generation.
Emily Sophia Wedgewood Benn
(below is Emily's CV as submitted at the start of the candidate selection process - more information will follow soon)
Sex: Female
Ethnic origin: Mixed : White and Asian
Labour Party experience:
I have been a member since I was allowed to join at 14. From much earlier I campaigned in elections, and currently throughout the year, I phone canvass in Croydon and with Young Labour, as well as delivering a regular leaflet. I have, from a very early age, been involved with the party, and in every election since I was born I have helped in any way I could. Likewise, I have attended over 14 Labour Party conferences, along with NPF forums, to see the policy development process, and labour movement at close hand. I have done many weeks of work experience in the Prime Minister's political office in Downing Street, giving me to see the chance to see how policy is developed first-hand. Likewise at the Labour Party conference in 2006 I worked in the leader’s office, giving me the chance to see how the link between party and leader is formed.
Other life experience:
As an A-level student I experience and understand the issues and problems young people face today. But these are not just ‘youth’ issues- they affect all people in society. Living in a deprived area I deal with the threat of crime, lack of affordable housing, healthcare and education - all issues I am keen to address in any way I can. As a member of the Royal College of Music I’ve been privileged enough to perform in major venues, like the Royal Opera House, giving me a wider perspective in life. Extensive travel abroad has widened my view of the world, especially my frequent visits to Europe, Israel, the West Bank, India and the USA
Knowledge:
I have undertaken extensive reading on a range of Labour Party issues. At each election I have studied the manifestos, to understand our policies and messages. I get a weekly Hansard to read the issues being debated in Parliament. From discussions with family and colleagues, I have built up considerable knowledge of the history of the Labour movement, and of the policies today being discussed, at the heart of the party’s government. My work experience has widened my knowledge as I have been lucky enough to see what is required to create change for the better, at conference, at NPFs and in government. While out campaigning and listening I have begun to understand the problems people are faced with today and how these can be addressed, as well as how we can campaign effectively all around the country.
Communication Skills:
Communicating is what I enjoy the most – the best ideas are useless without the ability to communicate them. Throughout my career I have been an active public speaker. At my current 6th form I made a passionate defence of the NHS against a hostile audience. In 2003 I made a speech to hundreds about the Iraq war, changing a number of minds. I constantly write material for school and organisations on both political and non-political topics. I am passionate about talking to people, understanding them and trying to help them; communication is essential.
Campaigning & party development skills:
Since a very, very young age I have campaigned for Labour across the country. In the 1992 (Aged just 2) and 1997 elections I campaigned extensively for Tony Benn in Chesterfield. In 2001 and 2005 I went to Leeds to help Hilary Benn’s campaign - in both places door knocking, leafleting and more importantly talking to constituents. In my local constituency I deliver regular leaflets, go door-knocking and attend regular meetings. I am at my happiest out campaigning, listening to people and spreading the labour message.