Young Christians in Politics Board
In Autumn 2020, we launched our first YCIP board to drive forward YCIP’s vision of inspiring and equipping young Christians to engage in politics in the most fruitful and compelling way possible. They are a group of dynamic young people from different parties and church traditions who want to grow the YCIP network and strengthen relationships between existing members.
Introducing the YCIP board
Abigail Federovsky- Internal Community Officer
“I’ve always cared about ending inequality and injustice, and how this connects to my faith, but I first became interested in politics in a formal sense when I (somewhat accidentally) ended up studying it for my undergrad degree. Since then I’ve worked for a couple years for charities, often engaging with Government, and I recently finished a masters in International Development.
When I first came across Christians in Politics I was happily surprised to find a group that brought together those from across the political spectrum, to be able to have conversations and find unity. I strongly believe that this is needed more than ever at the moment and I’m really excited to be part of helping build up this community over the next few months!”
Iain Millington- Secretary
"I got interested in politics when I realised the huge impact it can on people’s lives. From national lockdown restrictions to local planning, politics is important in giving solutions and developing society.
I’m a member of the Labour Party and run the Twitter account for my local branch. Economic inequality has been a big drive for me politically. I get irritated knowing there are people who are homeless and children going hungry when billionaires are getting richer and large corporations aren’t paying their taxes.
I’m the secretary, so I’ll be keeping minutes, managing internal board communications and helping the rest of the board. I am looking forward to increasing engagement and getting to know this community which is driven by God and an interest in politics."
Johnathan Akindutire- External Networks Officer
"I am passionate about rebuilding our broken communities and providing young people with a future. Growing up I witnessed, the closing down of youth clubs, the dissemble of youth projects only to the detriment of the young people in the community.
I joined YCIP, to reach young people and give them the space to express themselves and to engage politically within their education institutions and communities. I am currently a youth mentor and I’m also working towards setting up community projects, where young people can explore their talents through arts & performance, sports and other career paths. I am a recent graduate; and currently looking for opportunities to support my local MP and council.
Sarah Overton- Advisor
“Since finishing my Masters in EU International Relations and Diplomacy Studies at the College of Europe in June 2019, I have been working for the Liberal Democrats on Brexit, foreign policy, home affairs, and justice. In this role, I have helped analyse pieces of legislation such as the Domestic Abuse Bill, Immigration Bill, and EU Withdrawal Agreement Bill. I also support and brief Liberal Democrat parliamentarians, edit party policy motions, and write articles on the policy areas I cover.
I am excited to see the growth and engagement that happens as we work as a committee and with YCIP members in this new chapter!”
Will Sapwell- Advisor
"Will is a doctor in South Yorkshire but also campaigns for the Lib Dems in Sheffield. He is a candidate for his local party and also ran in 2019's General Election.
He advises Liberal Democrat parliamentarians, using his on the ground experiences to keep health policy relevant to the front line.
Will worships at St Thomas', Crookes in Sheffield and used lockdown to learn how to grow chillies and bake bread."
Amy Fortnam- Liaison beween YCIP Board and CiPol board
Amy will be helping the YCIP Board to liaise effectively with the Christians in Politics Board!
She is the Youth Representative Board Member for CiPol and has been volunteering with us for a number of years. She is currently completing her third year at the University of Bath