With the local government elections approaching on November 4, local youth shared their motivations for heading to the polls.

Brothers Mitchell and Brandon Loubser, both 20, are registered and preparing to vote for the first time. Mitchell said he believes voting is the only way to bring about change, while Brandon admitted he is voting partly due to peer influence.

Family shapes political views

The brothers share similar political views, which they believe are largely shaped by their upbringing and family influence. They said their family has played a significant role in shaping the way they will vote.

While Brandon is excited about casting his first vote, Mitchell is less enthusiastic, saying smaller parties face slim chances of winning.

They also acknowledged that political parties’ campaigns and advertisements have influenced their decisions.

The brothers said the previous national election gave them hope and encouraged other young people to make their voices heard by voting.