MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Falkland Islanders attended the Commonwealth Youth Parliament in Australia

Ulia Sytchova, Aerodromes Manager for the Falkland Islands Government Air Service and Vicky Collier, Firefighter with Falklands Fire & Rescue Service

Young Falkland Islanders, Ulia Sytchova and Vicky Collier recently represented the Falkland Islands at the 7th Commonwealth Youth Parliament (CYP) in Darwin, Australia from November first to five.

 The Commonwealth Youth Parliament rotates alphabetically through the Regions of the Commonwealth and this year Australia hosted the event which focused on the theme - 'Deepening the Commonwealth’s Commitment to Democracy and Youth Development'. Only 50 young people from across the Commonwealth are approved to attend the CYP, as well as young Members of Parliament from across the Commonwealth who participate as mentors.

Vicky and Ulia had a glimpse at life in the parliamentary spotlight and were given practical experience of the parliamentary system. The agenda included debates, votes on Bills and government motions and meals with their peers from the Commonwealth family.

Before leaving, Vicky Collier said she was very much looking forward to representing the Falklands at the Commonwealth Youth Parliament this year: “I have always been interested in attending, however I have never been in a position to be able to. It is a great opportunity to learn more about politics on a global scale, and to gauge views from people from different countries, religions and cultures.”

Ulia Sytchova was thrilled to have been given the opportunity, “I’m really excited to meet the other attendees and learn about their Commonwealth states, as well as to promote the Falkland Islands and all the great things about our community. I’m really looking forward to participating in the debates surrounding shared topical issues and to gain different perspectives from the talks that we will receive.”