The Secretary-General of the CPA, Dr William F. Shija (left), handing Mr Kadirgamar (right) his certificate from the event.
memorable aspect of such an event is always the opportunity to network and build relationships with a range of remarkable people. In meeting and getting to know my fellow delegates,
I realised that although we came from diverse backgrounds, there was an inherent commonality in the level of interest we shared for the future of our respective nations. As I listened to the stories and insights of my colleagues, it was clear that there were so many common threads in the issues facing the different corners of the world – whether it be climate change, education, or political corruption. It retrenched my belief that the best and only way to find effective and lasting solutions is to work together in partnership. I came to realise the importance of the strong network that the Commonwealth creates in this regard.
The opportunity that we were given to meet outstanding figures such as the Deputy Secretary General, the Speaker of the House of Commons and the Lord Speaker certainly added on to our experience. I certainly gained some invaluable insights into the work of the Commonwealth and the limitations within which the work must be done. There was also something
special about being in and around the heart of democracy at the Palace of Westminster. The culmination of the CYP together with the Commonwealth Diaspora Parliamentarians at the breathtaking surroundings of the House of Lords was without question one of the most memorable experiences. The honour of being amongst a group of young people who were the fifth in history to be allowed to sit in the honourable House is one that
none of us would take lightly, and one that we would cherish for a very long time.
Although it has been a good two months since we departed London, I still hold vivid memories of our time at the CYP. At the conclusion of the proceedings, when we had fully adapted to our roles as ‘Parliamentarians’ over the week, it was time to face the real world. There was a sudden realisation that the amendments, Bills and Resolutions we formulated and passed would stop here. The fictitious nature of “Commonwealthland’ towards which we had developed a certain level of patriotism began to dawn on us. However, these were only the means through which we gained an invaluable experience to carry with us forever. We all returned to the real world, fully equipped with knowledge, skills
and renewed enthusiasm to pass on to our peers at home. In those jam-packed few days, the CYP not only gave me an in-depth understanding of the procedural parliamentary system, but also of the intricacies involved in creating positive change at the legislative level. This would benefit greatly in the youth-led community and advocacy projects and workshops I am involved with, and will definitely help me in my own career progression. But as with all great conferences, I have to say it is the networks and friendships that we forged that remain the most valuable. Our parliamentary colleagues from CYP do not simply boost our facebook network numbers. They will always remain valuable connections, ensuring that the solidarity amongst Commonwealth nations is well maintained in our generation.