For the younger generations: the biggest issues you face are not abstract. They are real. Can you afford to move out? Can you buy or rent a place without spending nearly everything you earn? Can you live in the safe, clean and green environment that you wish for? Can you bank on public services that will actually work when you need them, notwithstanding the thousands of euros spent in publicity everywhere you look?I firmly believe that Malta needs a new direction. Alex Borg and the PN’s Nifs Ġdid message is not just a slogan. It is about restoring balance, planning seriously, and putting quality of life back at the centre of politics.At my age, I bring together experience, energy and a very clear message: politics should be about people, not power. Today, as a Nationalist MP for the 12th district and Shadow Minister for Inclusion and Consumer Rights, I want to keep giving a voice to people who feel ignored.One of my main priorities is the environment. Too many young people are growing up surrounded by traffic, dust, overdevelopment and fewer open spaces. I want a Malta where development is responsible, where air quality matters, and where communities are not sacrificed for short term profit.Another priority is affordability. Young people are working hard, but many still feel stuck. The dream of independence is becoming harder and harder by the day because wages often do not match the real cost of housing and daily life. This has to change through serious, responsible policies that make life more manageable, not through empty promises.Inclusion is also central to my work. Through my own family experience, I understand that inclusion is not just a word. It is about access, dignity and support. Whether someone is facing disability, poverty, discrimination or social exclusion, the state must be there to give a helping hand, not to make life harder.For months, together with parents and the School Council, I fought to keep the Dun Manwel Attard School in Wardija open — a school that gives disabled youths the support and opportunities they deserve. The Government’s plan was clearly to shut it down. But after strong public pressure, the Government was forced to backtrack, and new students will now be admitted this year.Another area I worked on during the last legislature was consumer rights — an issue that affects young people every day. From hidden fees and online scams to unfair prices and poor services, consumers deserve transparency and fair treatment. That’s why we need stronger enforcement, clear rules for businesses, and more awareness so people know their rights when shopping online or in stores.Once again, the Government failed consumers. Many families were denied the eco reduction on their electricity bills and ended up paying more than they should have. Thanks to our work, this issue was exposed publicly, and affected consumers were refunded the extra money they had unfairly paid.The district I currently represent, from St Paul’s Bay to Mellieħa, Mġarr, Burmarrad, Wardija and surrounding areas, also faces daily problems: traffic, lack of cleanliness, crime, noise, poor planning and services that have not kept up with population growth. I have used my voice in Parliament to raise residents’ concerns and push for action.Even from Opposition, we have made a real difference in people’s lives. The swimming zone next to Sirens in St. Paul’s Bay was reduced because of the works at the Bugibba quay. Once the project was completed, the zone should have been restored to its original size. Instead, this summer’s mariners’ notice kept the reduced swimming area in place. Following pressure from my end, the Government was forced into another U turn, and the original swimming zone was reinstated for everyone to enjoy safely.I am now also offering myself to voters in the 10th district, which includes Gżira, Naxxar (including Baħar iċ Ċagħaq), Pembroke, St Julian’s (including Paceville), and Sliema, which localities face similar situations.My message to young voters is simple: do not let anyone take your vote for granted, or try to buy your support.Think about the Malta you want to live in, not just today, but in ten or twenty years’ time.Politics must be honest, close to people and grounded in real life. That is what I offer: experience, a listening ear, and a commitment to work for a Malta that feels liveable again.Graziella Galea is a PN Candidate contesting Districts 10 and 12 on the 30th of May.Lovin Malta is open to interesting, compelling guest posts from third parties. These opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Submit your piece at hello@lovinmalta.com•