Abi, member of the Somerset Youth Parliament Advisory Group, has Just returned from Ghana which she has visited for the first time since she was very young. Abi was both nervous, excited, but also more curious about how she would fit in, as she’s lived in the UK for so long. Abi’s personal experience exposed many thoughts around the culturally vibrant and rich heritage of her communities against the inequity of life for ordinary African people and that of exploitative politicians. Abi’s thoughts also enabled her to consider her own privilege and appreciate the choices that she has compared to others.
Even in the UK people face inequity and prejudice on a daily basis. Youth Parliament often reflects on its own experiences and as challenging as it may be also on our privilege. Many young people and families in Somerset may also have diverse experiences or be in tough situations with limited choices, which can silence them. Somerset Youth Parliament will always be a place of fairness, respect and equity where young people WILL be heard!
Every month this year, I’ve given myself a mantra. Something to go back to every time I remember, an anchor I suppose. And this month, after visiting Mother Africa herself, I’ve realised that August was the month to see the glass half full. That’s how I saw everyone thriving.
Truth is, many will not get what they deserve there. As politicians prioritise sparkling cars and marble floors over humanity, too much talent goes unnoticed and unwanted in most African countries.
The glass will always have to be half full to survive, and without the option to give up even insanity isn’t an option really – isn’t this crazy in itself? Optimism isn’t even the word or the outlook I saw most people having on life.
Things are tough and on seeing foreigners enter their countries to take Instagram pictures and change money into cash, that some won’t see the equivalent of after working a full month, whilst watching corrupt politicians get re-elected into presidency.
I’m still settling back into the UK, starting a level three course and considering going to university, but even the chance to dream has made me realise how lucky I am, to have experienced and enjoyed a culturally rich, vibrant West Africa – it’s food, language, dance, people and heritage. Yet I’m also able to sit in the western world and enjoy the benefits of its exploitation…AND consider if I want to go to school or not because I’m not sure if its ‘for me’! Wow!! What a cry-baby! I’m taking too much cake and not even eating it.
The nicer part of me is glad that I’m so protected and lucky, but I just wish that it was the same for everyone back home. It’s weird to be considered the ‘lucky ones’ who get the opportunities of the western world whilst still being Black. Still being African, you know?
While I’m still settling in, trying to figure my head out, still enjoying the last of the warm weather here and the UK, I will get back to you soon to shout some more! Hold tight for me ok?
Abi
Nominations are open for the next Somerset Members of Youth Parliament!
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Youth Parliament Elections, where young people aged 11-18 years who live, go to school or college in Somerset can self-nominate for the chance to represent their peers, campaign on issues that matter to young people and represent Somerset on the national stage.
For more information about the elections and to self-nominate, visit https://somersetyouthparliament.org.uk/elections/
