Lincoln Dam

Future West candidate for the Henderson-Massey Local Board

The Henderson-Massey Local Board covers an area which is a perfect kaleidoscope of cultures reflecting New Zealand as a whole today. Coming from an ethnically diverse background and as the youngest candidate with Future West, Lincoln is a strong advocate for the involvement of cultural minorities and youth in the community.

“Cultural minorities and youth often have strong opinions on issues that affect them, but lack opportunities to ensure that their views are heard. As a Henderson-Massey Local Board Member, I hope to ensure that youth are not negatively impacted by the new, amalgamated structure, particularly with regards to representation, and to ensure that all members of the community have the opportunity to voice their opinions on issues that affect them in their day-to-day lives. After all, a community is only democratic when the so-called “weakest” members of the community (or the unheard) can enjoy the highly valued social, economic and civil rights that only the “most powerful” possess”.

Lincoln is also a strong believer in community power over community assets. If elected to the Henderson-Massey Local Board, he will do everything he can to ensure that assets remain available for all members of the community to enjoy.

Lincoln accepts that he is still young and may lack the experience of other candidates. He points out, however, that he does not lack the aspirations, enthusiasm and energy of experienced candidates in wanting to ensure that the Waitakere Way is kept alive and in wanting to make Waitakere a better place for all members of the community. “This community has given so much to me in the past and has undoubtedly made me who I am today. This is my opportunity to give back…a new face and a fresh perspective on the new ‘Super’ City.”

For local government of the people, by the people, for the people, please vote for me and the FUTURE WEST team.

About Lincoln Dam

Lincoln is proud to call himself a West Aucklander having lived in Waitakere City ever since he was born. Lincoln’s parents came to New Zealand as refugees almost 20 years ago, and are extremely grateful for the opportunities that this community have brought to them and their two children.

From 2005 to 2009, Lincoln attended Waitakere College, where he was Head Boy, holding leadership roles in many facets of school life. In November 2009, Lincoln was awarded a scholarship by The Trusts Charitable Foundation (Inc) (Waitakere Trust) which is enabling him to further his studies at university. Lincoln is currently in his first year at the University of Auckland where he is studying for a Bachelor of Arts in Political Studies (Public Policy) and a Bachelor of Laws conjoint degree. After completing his degree, Lincoln hopes to either further his studies to become a lecturer/researcher or be admitted to the bar as a legal practitioner. Lincoln’s ultimate goal is to become a Member of Parliament for the community that has given so much to him.

Lincoln is highly involved in the community, particularly in youth programmes, ensuring that youth are given an opportunity to present their views. He is a member of the United Nations Youth Association of New Zealand and the Aotearoa Youth Voice Network, amongst many other groups. Earlier this year, Lincoln was selected to represent the Honourable Chris Carter, MP, and the electorate of Te Atatū at the Youth Parliament held in July. As the Youth Member of Parliament for Te Atatū, Lincoln was given the opportunity to be in the shoes of an MP for two days, participating in debates, questioning government ministers and sitting on Select Committees in Parliament.

In between his studies and involvement within the community, Lincoln enjoys spending time with family and spending time outdoors – something that he believes is associated with being a Westie.

Contact Lincoln at bell_lincoln@hotmail.com or 0211371070.