YLT Candidates: Africa and the Middle East
Africa and the Middle East has produced an impressive number of YLT Candidates. The Candidates come from Cameroon, Israel, Kenya, Liberia, Morocco, Nigeria, Palestine, and Rwanda. One of the Candidates is female and seven are male.
Voters, learn about your regional Candidates and ask them constructive questions by "posting a comment" after the last profile. Please include your name and country on each question or response. Submit your vote to dominic [@] earthcharterinaction.org by midnight (CET) on Sunday 23 September.
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Mr. Cyprien Semushi, Rwanda
Read Cyprien's CV
I am Cyprien Semushi; born on 19 September, 1982 in the western province of Rwanda but am currently living in Kigali city. All along my education I did arts both at secondary and university levels. I am a self-starter and always keen to fulfill my duties and commitments. I am a member and co-founder of YADDI and still volunteer as a Youth-Led Development Officer.
2. What inspires you most about the Earth Charter?
The preamble of the EC which reads that to move forward we must recognize that in the midst of a magnificent diversity of cultures and life forms we are one human family, [….] with a common destiny and that we must bring forth a sustainable global society founded on respect for nature, universal human rights, economic justice, and a culture of peace.
3. What inspires you most about the ECYI?
About the ECYI, the most inspiring thing is that the initiative comes from young people on their own.
4. What innovative – and cost effective – ideas do you have for expanding ECYI membership and diversity in your region and creating a strong regional network?
I would call upon all local youth organizations in regular meetings and urge them on carrying out some positive actions for the benefits of” marginalized people, (i.e. those who can’t afford getting shelters, those who are starving of hunger, etc).
5. What special skills, knowledge, or experiences will you draw upon in this work?
- Working with heterogeneous target groups,
- Using Communicative skills
- local contacts and links.
6. What challenges do you foresee encountering in your work as a YLT member?
It won’t be that easy to convince people who are starving of hunger, who can’t afford paying their school fees, or find shelter that people are equal and enjoy of the same equal opportunities and rights.
7. Realistically, how much time do you have to dedicate to your YLT duties each week?
Between 7 and 9 hours a week
8. When did you first learn about the Earth Charter?
Probably early this year or late 2006, when the current coordinator of my association joined.
9. When did you join the ECYI?
I joined the ECYI on 31 August, 2007
10. What is your date of birth?
19 September, 1982
11. Do you have good spoken and written English skills?
Yes, I do
12. Do you have good access to the Internet?
Yes, I do
13. Have you read the entire text of the “YLT Guidelines” carefully?
Yes, I did
14. Are you prepared and willing to fulfill all of the responsibilities required of YLT Representatives as detailed in the “YLT Guidelines?”
Yes, I am ready
Mr. Elijah Kanyi, Kenya
MY NAME IS ELIJAH KANYI, A KENYAN BY BIRTH AGE 21ABOY IN AFAMILY OF NINE AM SINGLE AND READY TO MINGLE, I AM CHRISTIAN I CAN SPEAK IN ENGLISH AND SWAHILI.MY MAIL IS monelijah@yahoo.com
2. What inspires you most about the Earth Charter?
I LIKE THE WAY THINGS ARE MAILED TO MEM BERS AND HOW ONE CAN PARTICIPATE IN COMMENTIN G IN ANYTHING IN THE WHOLE CHART OF THE EARTH CHARTER.THE ISSUE OF ENVIRONMENT MOST INSPIRES ME A LOT HOW WE CAN TAKE CARE OF OUR ENVIRONMENT.
3. What inspires you most about the ECYI?
THERE IS NOTHING GOOD IN THIS WORLD THAN KNOWING WHERE YOUR ARE HEADING TO.ONE THING THAT INSPIRES ME IN ECYI, IT’S THAT IT’S RUN BY YOUTHS AND ALSO WITH THE HELP OF OTHER’S WHO HAVE BEEN IN THE SAME PATH. ”AS THE SAYING GOES A YOUTH CAN RUN FAST, BUT WITH THE HELP OF AN OLD MAN HE CAN RUN FAR”.
4. What innovative – and cost effective – ideas do you have for expanding ECYI membership and diversity in your region and creating a strong regional network?
I CAN INCOURAGE YOUTHS TO JOIN, USEFULL ORGANISATION AND ALSO TO INVOLVE THEMSEL IN ECYI ACTIVITIES.AND NOT TO CHECK ON THE NEGATIVE SIDE OF LIFE BUT TO KNOW, NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE BUT NOTHING COMES SO EASY IN LIFE.
I WILL TRY MY LEVEL BEST TO SEE THE YOUTHS IN THIS COUNTRY ESPECIALY IN MY SOCIETY CAN THINK ABOUT POSITIVE THINGS IN LIFE,BY ENGARGING THEM TO DIFFERENT KIN DS OF ACTIVITIE,THAT IS SPORT TREE PLANTING, AND ALSO CAPACITY BUILDING.
5. What special skills, knowledge, or experiences will you draw upon in this work?
ONE THING I WILL DO IS LET TEHM MAKE THERE PROGRAME AND INCOURAGE THEM TO DO IT WITHOUT SUPEERVICING THEM.SHOW THEM THAT THEY ARE CAPABLE OF DOING THING’S THEMSELVES LET THEM BELIEVE IN WHAT THEY WILL BE DOING.
6. What challenges do you foresee encountering in your work as an YLT member?
IS THAT SAME OF THE YOUTHS WILL NOT GIVE THERE TIME IN SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES WILL BE HAVING. COMMITMENT WILL ALSO BE PART THE CHALLEGES I WILL BE FACING WHILE WORKING TOWARDS OUR OBJECTIES WHERE BY SAME LOSS HOPE WHILE ON THE JOURNEY.
7. Realistically, how much time do you have to dedicate to your YLT duties each week?
I WILL BE GIVING 3-6 HOURS EACH WEEK.DUE TO OTHER ACTIVITIES OF OUR YOUTH GROUP AND ALSO NOT FORGETING MY STUDIES.
8. When did you first learn about the Earth Charter?
I LEARNT ABOUT EARTH CHARTER WHEN I MEET DOMINIC IN SCOTLANT AT CIVICUS CONFERENCE,WHEN HE GAVE ME ALL THE STORY ABOUT ECI,THEN I BECOME INTERESTED TO JOIN,THEN HE GAVE ME ALL THE INSTRUCTION,WHICH I DID TO BE ECI MEMBER.
9. When did you join the ECYI?
I JOINED ECYI 2007 I AM NOT SURE WITH THE DATE AND MONTH.
10. What is your date of birth?
29/10/1985.
11. Do you have good spoken and written English skills?
YES.
12. Do you have good access to the Internet?
YES.
13. Have you read the entire text of the “YLT Guidelines” carefully?
YES.
14. Are you prepared and willing to fulfill all of the responsibilities required of YLT Representatives as detailed in the “YLT Guidelines?”
YES, I AM READY TO UNDERTAKE ALL THE RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF YLT.
Ms. Hind Ottmani, Morocco
I am a 25 years old Moroccan architect. For the last 5 years, I have been involved in a range of organizations and activities promoting gender equity, sustainable development, trade justice, youth participation and the culture of peace. And during these years, I have been working on linking my professional career with my passion for development, which explains my deep interest in urban sustainability. I have been trained in sustainable development, sustainable landscape design, and ended up working on youth friendly urban spaces as a graduation project. On a much less serious note, I am also a chocolate fan.
2. What inspires you most about the Earth Charter?
Its inclusion.
My first contact with the Earth Charter was right after I met one of ECYI members. At first, when I heard about it, I thought it was an ethical framework with a strictly environmental focus. But when I visited the website and read the charter, I really felt I finally found a holistic framework that includes many of the fields I’m concerned with. My passion and involvement for gender equity, trade justice, environmental protection, human rights, culture of peace and so many other issues, were all echoed in this document that since then became an infallible reference for my work.
3. What inspires you most about the ECYI?
Its diversity.
As inclusive ( and thus diverse) as the EC is, the ECYI is the perfect representation of the spirit of the EC.
4. What innovative – and cost effective – ideas do you have for expanding ECYI membership and diversity in your region and creating a strong regional network?
Membership expansion in the Arab and African region should take into consideration some geographical and financial constraints, which makes ICTs a key tool to be used. Some ideas for expanding ECYI membership could be:
- using the web to provide technical support to ECYG: grant writing, funding proposals, networking, skills building (through online trainings, resources sharing…)
- partnership building with regional and international organizations, which can provide virtual and face-to-face networking and training opportunities for ECYI members
- building thematic taskforces (e.i education, advocacy, campaigning…) among ECYI members from the african and arab region, depending on their interest and skills, that can further become ECYI main taskforces to be developed, and included in EC budget for more impact.
- Providing regionally specific online resources on ECYI website.
5. What special skills, knowledge, or experiences will you draw upon in this work?
- communication skills/ spoken languages
- Computer skills
- networking
- advocacy skills
6. What challenges do you foresee encountering in your work as a YLT member?
Communication between YLT members (all challenges linked to online work): action coordination, members’ availability and how to deal with different schedules.
7. Realistically, how much time do you have to dedicate to your YLT duties each week?
Between 3 and 6 hours, depending on my other commitments.
8. When did you first learn about the Earth Charter?
In 2004, during the International Youth Parliament, through an ECYI member.
9. When did you join the ECYI?
On November 2005.
10. What is your date of birth?
September 28th, 1981
11. Do you have good spoken and written English skills?
yes
12. Do you have good access to the Internet?
yes
13. Have you read the entire text of the “YLT Guidelines” carefully?
yes
14. Are you prepared and willing to fulfill all of the responsibilities required of YLT Representatives as detailed in the “YLT Guidelines?”
yes
Mr. Josef Major, Israel
Read Josef's CV
People do a lot of stuff for many reasons. Wars, abuse of the living, and massing up thing are being done all over in the name of science, religious, work places, the government, justice and other conceptions. It all means little to us, humans are little and we can only conceive so much at any given time. Than what to live for? I choose anything that is good for me - does not hurt others.
Things are good, we advance well. Many of the biggest problem in our world are not problems at all. They are lessons waiting to be learned. Our only mission is to look at what is a lesson and learn from it. That is why I believe in Community building, co-operation and diversity of cultures.
I am excited to be a part of a global movement towards building a just, peaceful and sustainable world community. I would add to that – diverse: as life is meant to be enjoyed with all its possibilities. To reach that high goal we must believe it is realistically possible to reach it and act upon that faith.
This is not a new religion but a quest inwards.
There are three thoughts that I believe are most effective for promoting the EC, its supporting organizations, and build healthy communities:
- Community gardens – local, clean, and collaborative production of food
- City of the future events – using existing parties, festivals and events as a platform to rebuild urban areas and public spaces and teach sustainability.
- Regional conferences for sustainable development – creating a base and frameworks for collaborative actions.
More info about myself:
Internet access: available
Free time: at least ten weekly hours
Encountered the EC: December 2006
ECYI member: since August 2007
Date of birth: June 23rd 1981
English: good (writing and speaking)
My special skills:
Organizing, coordinating and orchestrating projects\events\special jobs
Finding solutions based on simplicity
Drafting, adding to and\or revising plan of action
Personal statement:
I carefully read the YLT guidelines and I am looking forward, willing and able to be an active part in advancing the EC and ECYI within those guidelines. The main challenge would be in giving every potential activist the right task and empowerment, if I fulfill this task well than there is no limits.
I thank you and wish good luck to all candidates
HEALTH
Mr. Samer Eid, Palestinian Territory
Read Samer's CV
My Name is Samer Eid, I am a Palestinian. I born in Jerusalem but I grew up in Ramallah. I have finished the high school in 1997 then I have attended Birzeit University where I got my B.Sc Chemistry. Due to the bad political and Economy issue that we live in Palestine, my family haven’t the ability to expense on me, so I have to work while I was study. When I finished from the University, I worked as a supervisor control at a Pharmaceutical company in Ramallah for one year. Then I have gone for teaching Chemistry in the Al-Mustaqbal School in Ramallah for two years. While I was working in a Pharmaceutical and in the school, I was always work afternoon as a Cosmetics salesman. After that I have gone to the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies to continue my M.Sc. and now I am a M.Sc student at the Ben Gurion University of the Negev study Environments.
2. What inspires you most about the Earth Charter?
Actually, what am I inspire about the EC is the Just, Sustainable and Peace and the other EC principles. And how I can use the EC in the Environmental Education.
3. What inspires you most about the ECYI?
The ECYI could be a part of my Dream to have a Sustainable and Sustainable Development World. And because my Thesis is about inter-comparison of Air Pollution between East and West Jerusalem, this admires me to have an initiative of the people to help in achieve the goals of Sustainable world.
4. What innovative – and cost effective – ideas do you have for expanding ECYI membership and diversity in your region and creating a strong regional network?
My region needs a lot of work to change the ideology of the people especially children. The people have live more than sixty years under occupation. I don’t have an idea how much it cost to have expand the ECYI but what is interesting is that many people realize the need of EC in Palestine to obtain some of the Just and peace.
5. What special skills, knowledge, or experiences will you draw upon in this work?
It’s sure that everyday I get more experience and knowledge but mostly I think the most important thing I got is how I can work with different kind of people.
6. What challenges do you foresee encountering in your work as a YLT member?
Checkpoints and responsible people who may say what are you talking about and they don’t want to listen to you, money issue and Time.
7. Realistically, how much time do you have to dedicate to your YLT duties each week?
From two to five hours or maybe more. I have to mention that I am a Master student.
8. When did you first learn about the Earth Charter?
I met Stephanie when she have talk at the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies
9. When did you join the ECYI?
In August 2007
10. What is your date of birth?
30th of March, 1980
11. Do you have good spoken and written English skills?
English is my second language and I have good speaking and writing
12. Do you have good access to the Internet?
Yes I do
13. Have you read the entire text of the “YLT Guidelines” carefully?
yes
14. Are you prepared and willing to fulfill all of the responsibilities required of YLT Representatives as detailed in the “YLT Guidelines?”
Yes I do
Mr. Timothy Ogene, Nigeria
Read Timothy's CV
I am Timothy Ogene from Nigeria,a development and youth empowerment advocate with special interest in poverty reduction,ICT and peacebuilding.Having volunteered for a good number of youth-led organisations,I have acquired skills in the areas of advocacy,communication,networking and people management.I pioneered Young & Speed Africa a youth-led organisation that is committed to building partnerships for the sustainanble development of Africa and empowering youths to be change leaders in their communities.And also initiated the Youth Action Partners for Development ;an online interactive community for youths who are dedicated to community development-http://www.youthactors.ning.com.My mission is to support people support themselves.And I dream of a peaceful world where man respects his fellow man and the environment.
2. What inspires you most about the Earth Charter?
Answer: The fact that it provides guidelines for building a sustainable future for mankind.And the sense of universal responsibility,solidarity and love for diversity that it projects.
3. What inspires you most about the ECYI?
Answer: It embraces diversity and empower youths to commit themselves to building a just,sustainable and peaceful world.
4. What innovative – and cost effective – ideas do you have for expanding ECYI membership and diversity in your region and creating a strong regional network?
Answer: 1-Promote ECYI through online groups in my region.
2-Start up ECYI Campus Clubs that will hold open forums aimed at promoting the Earth Charter.
3-Contact youth-led NGO’s and coalitions to Endorse the Earth Charter and join ECYI.
5. What special skills, knowledge, or experiences will you draw upon in this work?
Answer: Skills
1-Advocacy
2-Negotiation
3-Public Speaking
4-Fund Raising
5-Networking
6. What challenges do you foresee encountering in your work as a YLT member?
Answer: The means to sustain my access to the internet and make local connections.
7. Realistically, how much time do you have to dedicate to your YLT duties each week?
Answer : 4 hrs.
8. When did you first learn about the Earth Charter?
Answer: July 2007
9. When did you join the ECYI?
Answer :12th of August 2007
10. What is your date of birth?
Answer: 3RD March 1984
11. Do you have good spoken and written English skills?
Answer :Yes
12. Do you have good access to the Internet?
Answer: Yes, but very much espensive for an average citizen.
13. Have you read the entire text of the “YLT Guidelines” carefully?
Answer :Yes, I have carefully read the entire text and hope to make a few inputs if given the opportunity
14. Are you prepared and willing to fulfill all of the responsibilities required of YLT Representatives as detailed in the “YLT Guidelines?”
Answer: Yes
Mr. Tobias Wiah, Liberia
I am Tobias Wiah, Graduated from Africa University in Zimbawe 2004, majoring in Sociology and English. I am presently the founder of earth charter youth initiative of Liberia, a group that is working war effective youth and communities. We are empowering young people with developmental skill, also working others issue like HIV/AIDS and poverty reduction. I am also a consultant to the inter-Religious youth Desk. I have been working others youth group in within Liberia and outside. I have been serving several board board on young people. I am board member of the Federation of Liberia YOUTH, a group that regulate all of the various youth groups in the country. I am Council member of the young people ministry of the united Methodist church of Liberia. This group make polices for the young people with the church and the society. I am on the board of the Share Mission Focus of YOUNG People of the General Board of Discipleship of USA . This group bring others young people from around the war to formulate policies on behalf of their fellow Methodist. I am a direct representative to the Council of Parliament of the World Religious Conference, ChigO USA. I have been delivering several speeches international. I was invited to the Council of Parliament of the World Religious Conference in 2004, Barcelona Spain. I spoke on the topic DEBT RELIEF. This bring the entire religious grouping in the together to discuses issues effecting the welfare of the globe. I was guest at the YOUTH Work in Contest Space, 2006 Belfast, Northern Ireland and spoke on the conflict in Liberia and how is it affecting the young people. From the vast experience working with young people I think I will do a very good job if I an elected.
2. What inspires you most about the Earth Charter?
The way this organization is been dealing with issues effecting the Globe. The passion they have for the globe
3. What inspires you most about the ECYI?
Young people from the background networking together for the welfare of the globe.
4. What innovative – and cost effective – ideas do you have for expanding ECYI membership and diversity in your region and creating a strong regional network?
Project writing, advocacies, fund raising and so forth networking
5. What special skills, knowledge, or experiences will you draw upon in this work?
Networking, Project writing, advocacy.
6. What challenges do you foresee encountering in your work as a YLT member?
I don’t like to talk about challenges. I always positive
7. Realistically, how much time do you have to dedicate to your YLT duties each week?
As long the work entails
8. When did you first learn about the Earth Charter?
I first learn about Earth Charter from Michael Slaby when we met in Barcelona at the Council of Parliament of the World Religious conf.
9. When did you join the ECYI?
2005
10. What is your date of birth?
November 25,1983
11. Do you have good spoken and written English skills?
YES
12. Do you have good access to the Internet?
YES
13. Have you read the entire text of the “YLT Guidelines” carefully?
YES
14. Are you prepared and willing to fulfill all of the responsibilities required of YLT Representatives as detailed in the “YLT Guidelines?”
YES
Mr. Wouvala Fongoh, Cameroon
Read Wouvala's CV
Born on 3rd June 1985 in Fiango-Kumba, did Elementary studies at Saint Theresa school, Fiango where I obtained my First School Leaving Certificate before moving to Saint Francis College; where I passed nine subjects at the June 2002 session of the Cameroon GCE Ordinary levels examination and moved to Saint Joseph’s College, Sasse ; for High School, during my stay in Sasse, I gained Information technology/Communication skills, won the National Junior Water Prize Competition, to represent my country at the 2003 STOCKHOLM JUNIOR WATER PRIZE COMPETITION, where I obtained a Diploma for the COMMUNITY WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PROJECT IN SASSE and passed three subjects in the June 2004 session of the Cameroon GCE Advanced level examinations. After graduating from High School I took a gap year due financial reasons after being bereaved for my Dad. Nonetheless, financial aid from my German pen pals enable me start undergraduate studies in the department of Chemistry at my home University of Buea in October 2005 ,but switched to studies towards a BSc. in Environmental science one year later after an unsuccessful year in Chemistry.
2. What inspires you most about the Earth Charter?
The Ecological Integrity principles of the Earth Charter.
3. What inspires you most about the ECYI?
Its objectives to provide youths with training on sustainable ways of living as means of establishing an ethical foundation for the emerging global society.
4. What innovative – and cost effective – ideas do you have for expanding ECYI membership and diversity in your region and creating a strong regional network?
Networking youth groups, NGO’s, and student associations and individuals all over Africa and the Middle East via online communication in a bid to increase awareness, commitment and participation of young people in global issues.
5. What special skills, knowledge, or experiences will you draw upon in this work?
I will count it a great privilege for me to render my services towards facilitating the engagement of youths and myself in Global Sustainable Development Decision making processes.
I’ll also gain leadership, policy making and communication skills
6. What challenges do you foresee encountering in your work as a YLT member?
Translating the Earth Charter principles into practice.
7. Realistically, how much time do you have to dedicate to your YLT duties each week?
5 – 7 Hours
8. When did you first learn about the Earth Charter?
The May 2007 edition of the International Water Association monthly newsletter.
9. When did you join the ECYI?
June 2007
10. What is your date of birth?
3rd June 1985
11. Do you have good spoken and written English skills?
Yes
12. Do you have good access to the Internet?
Yes
13. Have you read the entire text of the “YLT Guidelines” carefully?
Yes
14. Are you prepared and willing to fulfill all of the responsibilities required of YLT Representatives as detailed in the “YLT Guidelines?”
Yes
POST A COMMENT, BELOW!
Comments
I am really excited about this program. I know it is going to be a great success.
I am looking forward to working with all of you.
Tobias
Liberia
Posted by: Tobias Wiah | September 18, 2007 4:04 PM
This YLT squad seems to be very strong and a look at the candidates' profiles shows that they are great young people, with a bright future.
I look forward to working with each of you.
Cyprien
Rwanda
Posted by: Cyprien Semushi | September 19, 2007 7:50 AM
G'day to all Fellow YLT Candidates,
I have enjoyed perusing all of your personal statements and CVs- quite the impressive bunch!
I just wanted to pose a general question to all candidates: quite a few of you have emphasized the potential role of ICT (e.g. Internet and radio) as an efficient and cost-effective means of raising ECYI awareness.
Do you disagree/agree? In the case of the latter, are there any specific projects or proposals that you would like to put forth if elected to the YLT?
Many thanks!
Lisa
Canada
Posted by: Lisa Jokivirta | September 20, 2007 6:52 AM
Hello Lisa,
Thanks for the comment. The use of ICT (e.g. Internet and radio) as an efficient and cost-effective means of raising ECYI awareness' can not be underestimated. One of the ways I hope to promote ECYI is through online forums and groups and to connect with youth-led organizations and coalitions via their websites.
As regards your last question, I hope to start up ECYI Campus Clubs as a way of promoting the Earth Charter among young people and lecturers. I also will run an initiative that will promote environmental sustainability and peace.
I generally work toward raising awareness among private and public sector organizations.
Thanks a lot Lisa,
Timothy
Nigeria
Posted by: Timothy Ogene | September 20, 2007 11:17 AM
Hello everyone!
I'm Gabriela Monteiro, from Brazil, and a candidate for Latin America and Caribbean (vote for me! hehe!).
Well, I'd like to ask you all two questions:
1. Is environment an important topic in your government's agenda and; do citizens care about it? If not, do you think you can do anything to change it during your mandate?
2. How is the youth involvement regarding social/environmental issues in your country/community?
Thank you!
Warmest regards!
Gabi
Brazil
Posted by: Gabriela Monteiro | September 20, 2007 1:04 PM
Well, I agree with all of you on this matter [of ICT that Lisa brought up] that less cost is incurred through the internet and radio messages.
One of the best ways I am thinking to write projects to donors that will seek to bring culture exchange. For example, I am from Liberia and when I will go stay a week or so in other country I will be able learn their experience and get first hand information about their plights.
Lastly I am going push and raise funding at least once a year to bring young people for gathering that will address the goals of the Earth Charter.
Thanks,
Tobias
Liberia
Posted by: Tobias Wiah | September 20, 2007 1:12 PM
Hi all, I am Samer from Palestine.
I think you all guys are wonderfull and I can see that everyone have a great potential towards YLT.
Answering Gabi: yes my country is aware about environment issue but during the second Entifada, they started ignoring the sector about caring and saving the ENVIRONMENT. However, we have many organization that works in the environmental field, but they are facing a lot of obstacles which stops them from doing there jobs
I hope to see all of you and good luck for everyone.
With peace and love,
Samer
Palestinian Territory
Posted by: Samer Eid | September 20, 2007 2:15 PM
Hi all,
Let me just say a big thank you for all your comments and feedbacks to the questions that our colleagues have raised.
Starting by Lisa's concern about the use of ICT as an important tool of raising awareness, I do agree with her on this point. However,though these tools about the new technology are there but they represent challenges especially in some communities in which rudimentary methods of mass communication are still in use. As a matter of fact, not a big number of young people my age are that good at using the internet hence the reason why I didn't mention its use as an effective tool to use when networking with local people although we perfectly know to what extent the internet helps in this endeavour.
But with radio I do agree with you that it should be a better way of spreading the info in my community (though not effective to the rest of the world). So I am thinking of using radio serials and drama to achieve my goals.
Coming to the question of Gabi, my government is well aware of the environment problem and some positive steps to tackle that are already under way. Young people are not spared: their minds are fully set that even some college students have already started planting trees on their own initiatives. I am sorry to be that talkative, but I thought it was better to fully react to all issues raised.
Good luck to all
Amahoro ("peace" in my native language)
Cyprien
Rwanda
Posted by: Cyprien | September 20, 2007 4:01 PM
Yeah!
I think, overall, ICT is quite an efficient/cost-effective tool for raising ECYI awareness.
Lisa, thank you so much for such a wonderful idea. Honestly, I must confess that I'd never thought about that before.
Nevertheless, I think project proposals to this effect should target our Local Governments!
I look forward to seeing some top government officials (especially in Africa) read and endorse the Earth Charter, even as Individuals. Their participation may easily enable us access to our various National/State Media for raising awareness about the ECYI at little or no cost.
Moreover, with regards Gabi's questions, the youth involvement regarding social/environmental issues in Cameroon is quite encouraging.
The Ministry of The Environment & Protection of Nature in Cameroon top agenda gives a human face to environmental issues; empowers young people to become active agents of sustainable & equitable developement; and promotes an understanding that communities are pivotal to changing attitudes towards environmental issues.
My warmest and seasons greetings from Cameroon to ECYI members.
Wouvala
Cameroon
Posted by: Wouvala Walter Fongoh | September 20, 2007 8:09 PM
G'day to all Fellow YLT Candidates,
I'm Anantdeep Singh Dhillon, from India, and a candidate for Asia and the Pacific (not here to demand any votes! hehe!).
I have enjoyed perusing all of your personal statements and CVs- quite impressive indeed!
I just wanted to pose a general question to fellow YLT aspirants:
Well I have a vision that faith groups can go a long way in assisting to play a potential role as effective means of raising ECYI awareness. We can work on peace & sustainable development.
Also other regional youth & human development NGO's can assist us.
What are your views about these ideas? Do give your inputs, and we need to have a balanced team.
Many thanks!
Anant
India
Posted by: Anantdeep Singh Dhillon | September 20, 2007 10:14 PM
To everyone (answers to Gabi + a question):
1. Serbia is currently trying very hard for EU membership. EU has a very strict environmental policy, so Serbian constitution and all regulations deeply correspond to the EU regulations. There are also severe punishments for people/factories that put nature in danger. But still, there are a few factories that pollute local rivers and forests.
Question: Regarding this issue, I have a question for everyone and I would really like an opinion from all of you about Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): – if a factory pollutes, and gets punished for that, but still calculates that it pays out less to pay these punishments than to install new, safe equipment, Q: - how to motivate this factory to care for the environment? And you still cannot shut this plant down, because there work hundreds and hundreds of people. I guess many countries in transition (and others as well) will come up on that problem. What solution would you suggest? How does your society and government deal with this problem?
2. To Gabi as well: Idea of being an active citizen is getting more and more supporters every day. It’s, how to put it, kind of a fashion, because here and now in Serbia, young people hope for much better life than it used to be in the past decade. So people are motivated and eager to get involved – ecological movements, gender equality, anti-trafficking, religious tolerance, basically every kind of NGO flourishes here.
Jana
Serbia
Posted by: Jana Kovandzic | September 20, 2007 11:10 PM
Dear all friends:
While I’m reading your feedback messages, I get really excited about your enormous potential and I’m sure all of you can fit perfectly on the 11 YLT. Also I get excited because I’m sure that after these presentations we can exchange many ideas to continue working our projects for the welfare of our lovely planet.
For example, Samer I’d love to contribute some ideas for projects you could undertake with children on peace building processes; Cyprien, I could help you with my experiences of using radiodramas for social change (of course this fits perfectly for environmental issues)…
Well radio has been my friendly tool in Mexico to carry messages of peace not just for my country, but for Hispanic communities in California , U.S.A and other countries in Central and South America. I’ll be pleased to exchange some ideas for those interested in using it!
Cheers!! And I’m sure that the ECYI already won having you all great people inspiring such a great ideas for your communities and the entire planet.
Namir
Mexico
Posted by: Namir Nava | September 21, 2007 5:47 AM
I would like to thank each and every one who have applied for the YLT.
My name is Elijah Kanyi. First of all, I would like to say that the use of Radio as a tool of communication can be very effective, using it localy to spread the message. As a journalist student, I strongly agree with that. Internationaly, we can use internet just to let the rest of the world to know what is happening around the world.
In our youth group [Mathare Roots Youth Group, an ECYG], we have been using drama to spread the message in school and also in community at large, which I know it's also one of the effective way of spreading the message to others.
The other thing, just like Jana in Serbia said, is NGO'S. We should try our level best to get hold of NGO'S since they can be of good help to our duties in our societies.
I am a team player and I believe I have what it takes to be in the YLT. Change is a challenge and we should face it without fear.
All the best to those who have applied for the YLT.
I would like to say hi to ECYI members and request them to vote for me, since I have what it takes to get the YLT to another level.
Yours,
Elijah
Kenya
Posted by: Elijah Kanyi | September 21, 2007 7:06 AM
Hi all,
Allow me to express my heartfelt appreciation to everyone's input. It's really amazing.
Let me first of all start with Jana's worries about pollution and factories which are still polluting the air. My answer would be that we can't, as you evoked in your observation, shut down the factory for the only reason that there is quite a large number of families who owe their living on the factory. Again since the factory's processings are dangerous to not only the surroundings but also to the whole universe, I would collaborate with the local governments to help in interesting them to speed up the process of installing new environmental friendly devices and that within a limited time to save the planet. I am sure no factory owner would risk losing his profits in that way...they would, I am strongly convinced, accept that.
Reacting to Anant's issue in which faith groups and the like has been raised, I can assure him that I will, if ever I am elected, fully involve EC in the faith groups, like different churches. Here is a reason why I would do that: in my country and the rest of Africa, churches are those institutions that people believe in - whatever is said there. So I think involving different religious stakeholders would be of great importance in achieving my goals.
And I have to thank Elijah and Namir for their assured support in helping to prepare good radio serials and dramas (in third world countries) because radio is a first reliable tool for mass-communication in Africa. Of course we can't ignore internet as a tool par excellence of reaching a larger community when networking with far remote areas people.
Every best to all of us,
Cyprien
Rwanda
Posted by: Cyprien Semushi | September 21, 2007 11:42 AM
Hi all,
The radio is a good tool to show up the YLT. Also we can use a newpaper, that will be distributed freely, weekly directly to houses. The content of the newspaper is about EC and YLT activity and ways that people can make save this world and have a sustainable life. I also believe that home education can play a big role in teaching children, who will be our future.
What do you all think?
Samer
Palestinian Territory
Posted by: Samer Eid | September 21, 2007 1:17 PM
I just want to quickly response to both Gabi and Anant,
This what I have been saying all long about working as a team. First, we all are coming from different background with different experiences. For example, in my country, Liberia, enviromental issue is not a urgent concern which is very much saddend. So as an international body I would love to see where we can exchange programs. Someone who have more experience in enviromental issue will come and carry eviromental awareness in my country or any other country, because priority are differ from others. To consoladate the peace in Liberia is the goverment main concern and to create developmental projects. The illiterate is so high my country. If I talk about protecting the enviroment is not of concern but we can create program that we will be able to do culture exchange I can think then we will be able to make progress.
Yes, I agreed with Anant because all of us belong to one faith group, so we can use our skills and sell the goals of Earth Charter and we have the responsibility to do that.
Tobias
Liberia
Posted by: Tobias Wiah | September 21, 2007 2:18 PM
Hello to all,
These questions go to all of us:
1) What are your visions about this group for next 10 years to come? What would you like to see in the next ten years for this deliver?
2) As future leaders, what do you say about dictatorial leaders around the globe? What do you say about the political situation in Zimbabwe, Sudan, Iraq, Somalia, and the Middle East?
Give me your input. I feel we have the responsibility.
Tobias
Liberia
Posted by: Tobias Wiah | September 21, 2007 2:28 PM
Hello Gabriela,
Your question is full of insight.
My country has a strong policy on the environment but it is all on paper. Lots of policies have been put in place to stop gas flaring and environmental pollution in the Niger Delta, but they are not dully enforced. So, it will be one of the challenges I hope to take on. To advocate for the implementation of local and international policy papers on the environment.
Young People are not really informed in this regards. But by the time the Earth Charter Campus Club (which is one of my change agenda items) comes alive, it will be an avenue to sensitize and get them involved.
Thanks a lot,
Timothy
Nigeria
Posted by: Timothy Ogene | September 21, 2007 5:07 PM
Hello everyone. Congrats for choosing to be candidates. This is Nour, from Iraq, a former IYP member [Oxfam's International Youth Parliament].
I'm actually interested in asking Hind more about her career and vision to link it with sustainable development. If she doesn't mind talking to me, explaining more of what she means exactly by doing so.
I really am interested to learn more from your experience Hind.
Best of luck,
Nour
Iraq
Posted by: Nour Mosawy | September 21, 2007 9:39 PM
Hello everyone,
I'm of the voting ECYI members.
I can see everyone is talking about environment protection plans. An interesting insight to this for me... is not only to talk to people to protect the environment.
If we compare developed countries with developing ones, and see what are both doing for environment protection, we'll notice in every country people don't care for something seriously, unless it harms them... and this is not bad, actually it makes more sense!
The US now has strong election policies supporting the environment, why? Because they see the weather changes. We can all sense the weather problems! We no longer have enough spring, or autumn, we have trouble weather every day of the year!!
Also, another important thing for people is their health. In Iraq, people can't enjoy good weather anymore I believe because of wars and all the pollution that I do believe affected our sky! We can't eat fish from river because of pollution of dead bodies, and now oil there.
All this need more education about what can cause weather problems, or health problems. Then advocating for the causes and their avoidance. It all needs government commitment and, most importantly, people's awareness...how? NGOs, and some effective communities within the society.
International aid is much enforced...unfortunately, they don't help unless they have some interests!!!
Nour
Iraq
Posted by: Nour Mosawy | September 21, 2007 9:50 PM
Hey people!
I am so happy each time I check this website and notice more comments! I am also sorry not to have given any feedback since now, for I've been busy with some urgent issues. But fine, now I have even more things to say!!
I would like to start by answering Lisa's question. ICT has been identified as a key tool in development issues, and it is indeed for us, as ECYI members, one of our main work tool. So the role it has to play in the spread of the EC shouldn't be neglected since it isthe only way to expand membership when you take into consideration geographical and financial barriers. However, and I do agree with Cyprien on this matter, our regional context doesn't make it easy, since many of our people don't effectively have access to internet and other ICTs.
That's why, as I mentionned in my candidacy statement, it is not enough to work on a virtual level, but to use the ICTs to reach come organizations and people that might be of help to build up concrete projects and to set up concrete training and education programs.
So my personal vision, knowing the YLT mission ,is to use internet and all the virtual networks that already exist to build partnerships and bridge geographical, cultural and financial gaps in order to create oportunities to strenghthen and widen the network, build its members' skills, and empower them to take concrete action, linking them with possible funders and partners.
Answering Gabi's questions... Sadely, in my country, environment is not perceived as an important topic by the government, neither by the public. Morocco is now experiencing many economical and social changes, the development process is fully started and many investments are getting into the country, most of all in the tourism sector, but very little attention is given to the environment, which makes very few projects effectively sustainable. Environment preservation is almost seen as a luxury, because, as some stakeholders might say, "we have other priorities" (i.e: poverty alleviation, literacy, health...).
And the reason why we have this mindset is, as for me, there is no holistic perspective of development. And I believe that's what the EC is all about: inclusion! During my mandate, I would like to work on spreading this document among organizations and ministries (education, youth issues, environment...), so that this document could be further used as an ethical code to better understand how all issues are linked and to set up a new mindset that promotes diveristy and understanding.
Anant, I do agree with you about the importance of religious people, since they play a key role in changing people’s mindset, most of all in our region of the world. Moreover, the actual world conjuncture makes religious and cultural references even more powerful. So I believe it is a question to be considered in our work.
Nouuur! So glad to find you here! I didn't know you were an ECYI member, we are colleagues again then!
Thank you so much for your questions and insight.
What I meant by linking my career with sustainable development is working on sustainable architecture and urban planning. I already started researching on these issues, I also have been trained on sustainability in urban areas (through landcape design, urban planning, architecture etc...) and it's a topic that is going to be more and more raised in the coming years, since the world is getting more and more urban. As an example, 2007 is a turning point in the history of humanity, since for the first time, the urban population exceeds the rural population!! That is to say that in the coming years, there will be an urgent need to meet the needs of all these people in terms of habitat, health, education, sanitation, water...which makes sustainability in the center of any urban policy.
I would love to talk more about this issue with you, so don't hesitate to drop me a line on my email.
Salam,
Hind
Morocco
Posted by: Hind Ottmani | September 22, 2007 1:36 AM
The YLT initiative is quite a viable idea since it is going to involve young leaders from the different regions. Their coming together as a committed and dedicated team will bring up global issues to be looked at and how they can be solved collectively in relation to the Earth Charter. So I am very excited about this.
Thank you.
Be blessed,
Gesa Mike Munabi
Uganda
Posted by: Gesa Mike Munabi | September 22, 2007 7:58 AM
Dear YLT Candidates and ECYI Voters,
Thank you for participating in our lively and insightful "Town Hall Meeting" discussion. The questions and ideas that were shared here and in the Candidate's Statements will inform the discussion that the YLT has in Ahmedabad, India at the end of November.
As you know, this brings to an end the "Voting Week" for the YLT. I will be verifying and counting your votes, and will announce the new Team by Wednesday, 26 September, on the ECYI Blog.
I warmly thank the current Core Group and the numerous ECYI Members who contributed to the conceptualization of the YLT and the design of this election process. I am grateful as well to all 21 Candidates who engaged so actively in this historic, democratic process. You are all exemplary ECYI Members!
And remember, this is just part of an ongoing ECYI discussion. Check this website frequently to comment on new posts - or send me your own ECYI updates, reports, and photos to create a blog entry on one of your recent ECYI-related successes.
Again, thanks to all.
Peace,
Dominic Stucker
International Youth Coordinator
Posted by: Dominic Stucker | September 24, 2007 6:40 AM