Wednesday, June 6, 2007

Inspiring Youth Conference


On June 6th the 4th youth conference was held for the Youth Department in the ARCS. A new youth board was elected, a sum op of the work done the last 6 years was presented, and there were discussions about the future work and goals for the youth.

The conference stared with welcoming words from the President, Mr Mnatsakanyan. He talked about the importance of volunteerism, the important work that is done by the youths in Red Cross, before he ended his speech with some encouraging words to the audience.

“I expect you to continue your good work with the same enthusiasm and energy as you have now.”


After the presidents speech we got a brief overview of the activities of the youths, before two short presentations from Armenia’s two youth representatives involved in committees in the Red Cross family were held.

During the discussion of what the youths should work with for the next years there was a focus on targeting the beneficiaries, fundraising in the regions, cooperation with other youth NGOs and different social programs.

I was an "election observer"

Then the focus shifted to the youth board, and all the candidates introduced them selves and answered questions from the audience. One of the main concerns from the audience was the candidates’ willingness to spend a lot of time working with the youth board, and how they would face possible difficulties due to distance. There was also a discussion if the meetings should be held in Yerevan or rotate between the regions.

Voting

Counting the votes

Then it was time to vote, count the votes and introduce the winners. The audience was Venstrejusterapplauding loudly when the names war read, and they seemed very content with the new board.

The new youth board

After the elections, it was time for Pizza before most of the participants went on a long and warm bus ride back to the regions. Hopefully, they will bring with them the words of the President and continue their work with energy and enthusiasm.


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