Today is International Day of the Girl and I was thrilled that Estelle chose to come to Parliament and shadow me for a day last month to see what it was like being an MP. It was, inevitably, a busy and disjointed day, but we had a fascinating session of the Women and Equalities Committee, with DJ Annie Mac and Singer / Songwriter Rebecca Ferguson for her to experience. I am really pleased that it showed her Parliament was a place she could belong, and that she is still determined to pursue a career in Westminster.
Estelle said: Taking part in the Girl’s Takeover was such a rewarding experience. I wanted to take part in the takeover primarily for the experience of being around women who want to better the experience of girls and women in society. To me, parliament and the MPs who worked there felt disconnected from my life and experiences, I felt that the people I’ve seen within the media or on the news were people I would never meet or have the chance to speak to. The tour of Westminster already began to make me feel like I had a place there, as though it was a space as much for me as it is for everybody who works there, and spending the day with Caroline reaffirmed the idea that Parliament truly was a space I could utilise and be a part of. By the end of the takeover I felt as though my confidence in myself had risen. Caroline offered me wise advice throughout the day whilst being candid about her work within Parliament which felt so refreshing. I left the day knowing that Caroline had demonstrated to me first hand how women do have a place and voice in Parliament that is already being expressed to aid women and girls. Most importantly to me, I left the day knowing that I wanted to be a part of fighting for girls and women within Government, somewhere I am now certain I have a place in, a place just as valid and valuable as anyone else.
