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STUDENT REFLECTIONS

2020


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This is Kaya Selby; New Plymouth Boys High School's year 13 student who took part in CYNZ's 2020 CHOGM. Kaya applied to be a Secretary-General because it was something new. In 2019 Kaya participated in CHOGM as a delegate and wanted to contribute to the event in a new way.

Throughout CHOGM , Kaya enjoyed moderating the plenary sessions. Kaya also liked being able to interpret what each delegate was saying from a neutral perspective. Kaya believes that a diversity of opinions is vital to democracy and hence took care as to share the platform with as many students as possible. Kaya takes pride in being looked up to by others.

For those wanting to participate in CHOGM as a delegate or Secretary-General, Kaya encourages delegates to take pride in their country they are representing, understanding that their: cultures are unique and beautiful; economies and exports are manifold and lands are scenic. Kaya believes delegates should use these when they in disucssion and that they should hop on the opportunity to make their voice heard whenever possible.

Kaya believes Secretary-Generals are vital to democracy. Kaya's advice to Secretary-Generals are to: stay impartial; stand your ground; be aware of the time you have left for debate; and balance time equitably between countries regardless of their size. Kaya additionally advices to maintain appropriate etiquette.


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This is Moeka Koyama; Motueka High School's year 11 student who took part in CYNZ's 2020 CHOGM. Moeka applied to be a Secretary-General because it stood out as a unique opportunity especial to CHOGM. The responsibility of chairing the meeting and making sure delegates are given the chance to voice their opinions appealed to Moeka; who is glad to have applied for the role.

Throughout the CHOGM event, Moeka enjoyed all aspects of being a Secretary-General. Moeka especially enjoyed the challenges of learning to use the correct language appropriate for the formal meetings. Moeka also enjoyed ensuring that the plenary sessions ran smoothly with engaged delegates. Another highlight of Moeka's was the unique aspect of being addressed as the Madam Secretary-General.

For those wanting to participate in CHOGM as a delegate or Secretary-General, Moeka recommends giving it a go. 2020 CHOGM was Moeka's first involvement and despite feeling nervous about going to the meetings; the prefacing supplementary documents that were provided helped Moeka overcome that. This is because the documents gave clear guidance which made sure Moeka enjoyed the day.
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Moeka believes CHOGM is inclusive to all skills and hence can be enjoyed by new and recurring students. Moeka guarantees that with an open ear and a willingness to participate, CHOGM will stimulate students' thinking and grow their skills. Moeka states that this will not be the last involvement with CYNZ, and is looking forward to what is next to come.

© 2020 Commonwealth Youth New Zealand
info@commonwealthyouth.org.nz
PO Box 10741, Wellington 6143, New Zealand
  • Home
  • About us
    • Our Patron
    • Our Board
    • Our Executive Committee
    • Privacy statement
  • Events
    • Common Leaders' Day
    • National Student CHOGM >
      • What is a CHOGM?
      • Student Reflections
  • Join us
  • Contact us
  • Commonwealth Campaign
    • Commonwealth Campaign 2019
    • What is the Commonwealth?