Ellis Peares FRSA MCIPR AIoL

Personal Details

Bio

Hello, I'm Ellis — a dedicated political advocate, business owner, and advisor. Through my work, I engage with communities, address local concerns, and advise the Welsh Government on human rights issues. I also champion intergenerational solidarity as a member of the Senedd's Cross Party Group.

I'm also the founder and Managing Director of Student Hands Ltd, a fast-growing business offering various services across Wales, built to empower students and support local communities. I exclusively hire students, providing them with flexible, paid work and the training they need to succeed.

In the health sector, I hold advisory roles within the NHS, contributing to national strategies and service development with a particular focus on young people’s voices in care.

I made history as the first under-18 member of the Welsh Government’s Human Rights Advisory Board and was honoured to be named on the Pink List of leading LGBTQ+ activists in Wales.

Join me on this journey to inspire positive change through politics, business, and bold advocacy.

Current position (5)

Managing Director

Student Hands

Human Right Advisor

Welsh Government

Young Peace Ambassador

Welsh Centre for International Affairs

Youth Board Member

Cardiff and Vale Health Board

Member of the Cross-Party group

Welsh Parliament

Achievements (1)

Listed on the Pinc List

I was named as the first person under the age of 18, to appear on the Pinc List - a list that recognises the top LGBTQ+ activists in Wales

Presentations

Presentations (7)

Are Young people the future of politics?

Explore the pivotal role of young individuals in shaping the future of politics in this engaging talk. From sharing insights on the challenges faced by the youth to highlighting their potential to drive meaningful change, this discussion delves into the dynamic intersection of youth and politics. Discover the power young people wield as catalysts for innovation, advocacy, and the evolution of political landscapes, as we collectively ponder the question: Are young people truly the future of politics?

The Journey of Starting a Business as a Young Entrepreneur

Starting my own business, Student Hands Ltd, as a young entrepreneur has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life. I’ve had to learn how to manage people, make tough decisions, and navigate the complexities of running a business. I’ve also discovered how powerful it can be to create opportunities for others—especially students—and empower them with flexible, paid work. This journey has shaped me as a leader and taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and innovation.

From the Welsh Youth Parliament to Advocacy: A Personal Path

My time in the Welsh Youth Parliament was an eye-opening experience that has deeply influenced my approach to advocacy. As a young person in politics, I’ve had the opportunity to represent my peers and contribute to shaping policies that directly affect them. It wasn’t always easy—being young in such spaces comes with its own set of challenges—but I’ve learned how to overcome those and use my position to create real impact. This experience has fueled my passion for youth representation and making sure young voices are heard in critical discussions.

Challenges of Being a Young LGBTQ+ Activist in Politics

Being named on the Pinc List as one of the leading LGBTQ+ activists in Wales was an incredible honor, but it also made me reflect on the challenges of being a young LGBTQ+ person in politics. There are times when your voice feels overlooked or when you’re questioned for being too young, but I’ve learned to use those moments as fuel for my activism. My experience has shown me that visibility matters, and it’s crucial for LGBTQ+ youth to see themselves represented in political spaces.

The Role of Mentorship in Shaping My Political and Business Path

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had mentors who’ve guided me throughout my journey in both business and politics. Their advice has been invaluable in helping me navigate challenges and make informed decisions. Whether it was helping me understand complex political issues or giving me the confidence to run my own business, mentorship has been crucial in shaping my leadership style. Now, I’m eager to give back and offer mentorship to other young people looking to make an impact.

Building a Business that Empowers: Lessons Learned from Hiring Students

One of the most fulfilling aspects of running Student Hands Ltd is the opportunity to employ students and help them gain valuable experience. I’ve seen how providing young people with a job can make a real difference in their confidence and career development. It’s also taught me a lot about what it takes to run a business that truly empowers others. Creating an environment where students can learn and grow while providing a service to the community is a rewarding experience I never take for granted.

Navigating NHS Advocacy as a Young Leader

In my advisory roles within the NHS, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to mental health policy development, especially focusing on the needs of young people. It’s an area I feel deeply passionate about, as mental health is something that affects many young people, including myself. Being a young leader in this field has allowed me to advocate for better services and ensure that young voices are included in the conversation about mental health. It’s an ongoing challenge, but I’m determined to keep pushing for the changes that will make a real difference.