Alumni Shaun Dias of the 2012-13 ParliaMentors describes his journey of deciding to run in the local government elections
If I am honest, I had no intention of standing in the forthcoming elections, whatsoever. In 2011 when I was elected as Chairman of BPP Conservative Future, I said to myself then, that I would not stand for public office. Having taken over the society I was not that active within the party, I had joined in 2010 but after the General Elections, I did not do anything. So I thought to myself now I have this post, it may be a good idea to get more involved with my local association and with National Conservative Future. Looking back, that was probably the best decision I have ever made. Getting involved with policy discussions, helping organise events for the society ranging from Syed Kamall MEP to Lord Michael Howard all gave me a particular and interesting insight into the Party. At this point, as much as I loved organising events, going to Party Conference and helping with the 2012 Mayoral Campaign. I still was not thinking of standing for the elections, until a couple of friends of mine and members of my local association said it would be a good idea if I stand, and that I'd make a good candidate. I mentioned this to my family, and my grandfather in particular was extremely supportive of the idea, as he stood in the Council Elections when he was a practicing GP in Sri Lanka. To my surprise politics was in my blood, and as I had the full support of my family and backing of all my friends- Tory and not! When the selection process came around in October 2013, I put myself forward, I got selected for West Finchley along with two other great candidates who happen to be good friends of mine, and I haven't looked back since. Win or lose this election, it really has been an experience- a very tiring one, but an experience nonetheless. I love canvassing, just speaking to people and hearing their issues and being in a position to help them, even if it is just by sending an email to the right Cabinet Member means a lot to the constituent which makes me feel good knowing I've helped, albeit in a very small way, but I've been able to do something for them. Of course I have met some very interesting characters on the door, but that's what makes canvassing so much fun- there is always an interesting story to tell after. Standing for these coming elections has been the best decision I've ever made, I have learnt so much, gained so much experience and met some great and very interesting people. Win or lose this election, it will be the most memorable thing I've done to date, and it truly is an honour and a privilege to know that my local party members thought highly of me enough, to select me to be there 2014 Local Conservative Party Candidate.
Have you ever stood for an election? Tell us about your experiences by messaging the committee on [email protected] or comment below
Have you ever stood for an election? Tell us about your experiences by messaging the committee on [email protected] or comment below