HAVING spent many hours helping others, 16-year-old Madison Birtchnell has had the opportunity of a lifetime.
The Calvary Christian College student was chosen earlier this year to shadow the head of Queensland’s Justice Department David Mackie for a day.
Madison also got to meet Justice Minister Yvette D’Ath, Chief Justice Catherine Holmes and Justice John Byrne.
The opportunity was part of Law Week in which Madison was up against school and university students in the application process.
She said Mr Mackie showed great interest in her passion for social justice and her future aspirations.
“I was so excited and honoured to be given this opportunity of shadowing Mr Mackie who is a very approachable and welcoming member of the law community,” she said.
Passionate about community work, Madison wants to become a human rights lawyer and ultimately a politician.
“I enjoy giving back to the community,” she said.
“It started when I was in grade 6 and a Girl Guide and I realised that I wanted to make a difference.”
Madison said her parents had inspired her and been supportive of her efforts.
“They have always instilled in me to be generous to others and to make life better for other people,” she said.
Madison has volunteered at Ormiston House for over five years, started with Daughters of Promise this year and is a youth ambassador for Red Cross.
She is also a member of Amnesty International and, as a resident of Willowvale, is the YMCA Youth Parliament member for Albert.