Caymanian students join celebrations in London

(CNS): Two Caymanians studying in the UK were able to take a special part in the recent Commonwealth Day celebrations on 9 March, thanks to a programme organised by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. The two students, Jamaal Anderson and Tracey Forbes, were invited along with students from other Commonwealth countries to attend a day of activities which reflected this year’s theme of ‘The Commonwealth @ 60 – Serving a New Generation’. (Left: Traceyand Jamaal with Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Secretary-General Dr William F. Shija)

 According to a  release from the Cayman Islands Government Office in London, the programme included a tour of the Houses of Parliament, discussions on the Commonwealth, and talks from UK Members of Parliament and High Commissioners about their day-to-day activities and duties.

Jamaal and Tracey were also able to attend the Commonwealth Day Observance at Westminster Abbey, which provided the highlight of the day for Tracey. “Although the whole day was enjoyable, my favourite part would undoubtedly have to be the Commonwealth Day Observance as it brought a variety of people together in a collective spirit, all sharing their experience and challenges, and eager to help the young people of today,” she said.

Jamaal felt honoured to have been invited to take part in the day. “This opportunity has heightened my understanding of world politics, and has raised my awareness of how unique yet interconnected the world is,” he said. “It has allowed me to feel patriotic about my country, as this day-long seminar illustrated how small states such as the Cayman Islands help contribute to global issues. This has been a wonderful life experience that has helped shape my perception of the world.”

Mary Chandler-Allen, Acting Cayman Islands Representative in the UK, also attended the Observance at Westminster Abbey, together with other United Kingdom Overseas Territories Representatives.