The AFC says over 500 “energetic and expectant” youth attended its inaugural Youth Conference, achieving its goal of providing a single space for Guyanese youth to exchange ideas.
Youth For Change (YFC) hosted its meeting under the theme ‘Making it happen now!’ the party said in a press release. Jamaican Senator Basil Waite’s presentation “brought participants to their feet on his conclusion,” the release said. Economist Dr Tarron Khemraj’s “brilliant lecture” on the development of Guyana’s political economy also held their rapt attention.
YFC President Allister Collins said the convention achieved its objective of creating a neutral platform for youth representatives from across the country “to discuss honestly, and openly, issues affecting them.” In the coming months the group is expected to tour the country to engage youths in meetings and symposia to hear first-hand from them about their challenges and record their suggestions about how they can be addressed.
The forum was opened with the rendition of the National Anthem by Lisa Punch, followed by a session of African dancing, Indian drumming and an Amerindian heritage Dance. It was hosted at the Ocean View Convention Centre.
YFC extended gratitude to all those who contributed to the forum’s success.