UK-CHINA 400; My interview with a reporter from the Newham Recorder.

I was asked a few questions by a reporter at the Newham Recorder regarding the exchange programme in China. Here is a snippet of what I provided her with. I still have much more information I would like to write about, but I am in the process of gathering it all together to ascertain that I give justice to the programme.

Why were you selected?

The British Council for this particular exchange were firstly seeking delegates who have set up their own businesses/social enterprises. I took joint responsibility with Newham Action Against Domestic Violence in creating the I AM ME service and then developing and delivering it. Secondly, delegates who demonstrate that they have an involvement in politics, whether it be on a local/regional or national level. I have had heavy involvement with Youth Politics and UKYouth for a number of years, since being one of the founders of Newham's Youth Parliament. I was able to demonstrate my commitment and enthusiasm in ensuring that young people in Newham have been empowered to have their voice heard. I also have had experience in previous youth exchanges, my first was with the Newham Youth Parliament in South Africa for the LoveLife programme, the second was with the VSO to the Philippines and the third being China with the British Council.

Why did you apply?

I have always been a supporter of international youth-exchanges, volunteering and youth-led projects/services. I believe that these three elements provide a great foundation for a young person in their self-development. An international exposure is inspiring and inspiration is what gives me my drive to achieve and create positive change. Additionally, as I have mentioned before, there is currently no service providing both practical and emotional support to young people who have been directly affected by domestic violence with the tools and techniques that I use. Their is also no formal or regulatory board, which is youth led and focuses independently on young people affected by domestic violence. I want to pursue an initiative whereby a youth-led board is developed and the I AM ME service is accessible nationally and one day - Internationally. This opportunity would provide me with insight and wisdom from people from both China and the UK

Why China?

The Beijing Olympics stunned the world and has set a new standard. Newham therefore has a lot to live up to. Beijing prides itself on the 450,000 people who had applied to volunteer their time at the Olympics. With Newham housing one of the highest numbers of young people in a single borough, I believe it would be extremely motivational for young people to volunteer and take responsibility in representing their borough. Young people need to take pride in all they do. They need to be inspired and motivated to participate and involve themselves in something so grand as the Olympics. I wanted to learn from the Chinese and find out how they attracted such a large number of applicants. Beijing's answer was simply that 'The Chinese take pride in their country and an opportunity to volunteer in the Olympics would raise their profiles as individuals'' .

What now? I am now dedicated to ensuring that the young people who volunteer on the I AM ME service are empowered to participate in local politics with a view of creating positive change through volunteering.


The last few articles that have been published on me have taken on average 4 months to appear in the papers. So don't worry, I will have some more written up by then.