Michelle attends The National Schools Constitution Convention
The National Schools Constitution Convention (NSCC) is a program held at Old Parliament House in Canberra. It provides senior students the opportunity to explore the way by which Australia's Constitution provides a democratic framework for our nation and encourages students to acquire an interest in the operation of government.
The topic of the 2017 Convention was Indigenous Australians and the Constitution. Earlier this month, I was selected as one of 120 delegates amongst 4000 students, nationwide, to represent Western Australia at the Convention. The Convention was facilitated by Emeritus Professor John Warhurst AO, Professor of Political Science. There is no way I can substantiate or do justice to my experience and everything that I learnt whilst in Canberra simply in writing.
Canberra was an opportunity to explore an area by which I am passionate for but have never had the means to express or articulate my passion at such a prestigious level. There were a number of guest speakers which included Politicians, Professors and the Young Australian of the Year. It was an invigorating experience and I am now equipped with skills that I can utilise to further raise awareness about Indigenous issues in Australia and the ability to communicate effectively.
The most interesting parts of the program were the opportunities by which individuals could express their own opinions in the form of a soap box or an 'open mic', as well as the opportunities to articulate ideas in a group setting. There were a range of different opinions which is what made the experience all the more worthwhile. The opportunities we had to bond with different people have made lasting friendships, even with delegates from different states were very valuable. The guest speakers were formidable in transferring their own knowledge and personal experience to the delegates which allowed us to have directed and informed debates.
Canberra was an amazing experience. The opportunity to learn, debate, discuss and also explore our nation's capital territory was one I will never forget and I hope to partake in a similar program once again. I would like to extend my thanks to Mrs Ainsworth particularly for encouraging me to apply for this program as well as Mrs Pitos, for allowing me the opportunity to attend.
Michelle Kahondo