Today, delegates were equipped with new skills and knowledge to assist them to take action at a local level when they return home at the end of CYF.

“We hope the skills building sessions equip the delegates with practical tools to enable them to implement their ideas at the local level,” said Alan Huynh, chair of the CYF Planning Group.

They delegates attended skills building sessions on areas such as Negotiation and Diplomacy Skills, Innovative and Creative Thinking, and Project Management. They also developed personal action plans that will enable them to be leaders for progressive change at the local level.

“I found the skills building sessions really practical,” said Rey Reodica.

“It’s fantastic that the CYF not only gives us the ability to provide recommendations to heads of government, but also an avenue to be changemakers ourselves.”

Delegates also attended a civil society luncheon with a keynote address from The Hon Michael Kirby former Justice of the High Court of Australia. Delegates enjoyed a Q&A session with Mr Kirby, who spoke openly on a range of issues.

“He spoke truthfully on pertinent issues such as HIV/AIDS, Human Rights and Sexual Orientation. Michael challenged me to take action now, not be complacent and tackle the sensitive issues being faced by many in the Commonwealth today,” Ellie Seckold said.

For more information on the lunch with Mr Kirby, please see the Videos Page