The Royal Commonwealth soCIety Magazine
BeCause you’Re a gIRl
Does gender equality exist in the Commonwealth?
Commonwealth Day
Celebrating Women as Agents of Change
a yeaR In the lIFe…
The RCS Annual Report
FeatuRe stoRy
me and my net Our exciting new malaria competition Page 3
Issue 07 May-august 2011
welCome
Welcome… The Commonweal CommonwealTh Theme for 2011 is ‘women as agenTs of Change’. and, as you will see in This ediTion of rCs exChange, we’re bringing This imporTan T T Theme To Tan life Through a dynamiC porTfolio of youTh projeCTs, evenTs and advoCaCy. It all Began In eaRly maRCh wIth a stunnIng Commonwealth Day CeleBRatIon In westmInsteR aBBey. heR majesty the Queen was joIneD By annIe lennox, DamBIsa moyo anD the Poet lauReate, CaRol ann DuFFy, to CeleBRate the aChIevements oF women aRounD the woRlD. On the same day, we published new research in partnership with development ngO Plan exploring the best and worst places in the Commonwealth to be born a girl. Take a look at our findings on page 12 – they might surprise you! Over the next six months, we will continue to work with Plan on an advocacy campaign. Our aim is to secure a significant new commitment to improving girls’ education at the October Commonwealth Leaders’ Summit in Perth, australia. Look out for more news of this and check page 20 for details of our ‘Women as agents of Change’ event series. i’m particularly looking forward to what promise to be fascinating debates on the role of women in religion and diplomacy. iplomacy.
in this edition of the magazine, we also give you an overview of the last twelve months in the life of the RCS. it has been a challenging, exhilarating and, i believe, successful year. as many of you will know, the next eight months will see me being temporarily seconded to the Commonwealth Foundation as interim Director. however, i will remain very much involved in the life of the RCS and i am delighted that Patrick Wintour has agreed to join us as an associate Director for the period of my secondment. Patrick brings a wealth of experience to the role and i know that he is looking forward to working with you all. Finally, for those of you who are members of the RCS in London, it’s sometimes easy to forget that we have a worldwide network of branches stretching across forty countries. in mid-May, we will be meeting with many of our international colleagues in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. if you would like to plan your own trip to Malaysia, why not check out our travel feature on page 18? i can personally recommend Langkawi…
Danny sRIskanDaRajah DiReCTOR
The ROyaL COMMOnWeaLTh SOCieTy
highLighTS DOn’T MiSS inSiDe… 4
annual RePoRt
a year in the life of the RCS
Commonwealth
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youth summIts
UK students become leaders for a day Commonwealth
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DIasPoRa DIalogues
8 young British Sri Lankans pay an unforgettable visit to their parents’ homeland BeCause you’Re a gIRl
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Where is the best place in the Commonwealth to be born a girl? 18
tRavel
Learn about marvellous Malaysia PuBlIsheD By
The Royal Commonwealth Society www.thercs.org eDItoR
Joanna Bennett eDItoRIal assIstant
anushya Devendra DesIgn
www.fabrikbrands.com FRont CoveR Image
© M. hallahan / Sumitomo Chemical – Olyset net if you would be happy to receive RCS exchange by email, rather than in print, please contact Joanna Bennett at joanna.bennett@thercs.org, or call on 020 7766 9230. Write to us at 25 northumberland avenue, London WC2n 5aP. RCS exchange is printed on era Silk, the first recycled coated paper to use only waste collected from UK sources.
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News in brief
Tell us your story…
The Commonwealth Jubilee Time Capsule – building a unique ‘peoples’ history’ of the modern Commonwealth – launched on 14 March, Commonwealth Day. The Time Capsule is designed to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012 and her sixty years as Head of the Commonwealth. To celebrate the launch, the RCS ran a special competition asking each of the 100 schools coming to Westminster Abbey for the Commonwealth Day Observance to submit entries into the time capsule. The winner of this competition was Gabrielle McGuinness, 15, from Reading, who presented Her Majesty The Queen with a bouquet in the Abbey. Gabrielle told the story of her mother’s emigration from the UK to Guyana in 1969 through creative use of prose, poetry and interview techniques. The Jubilee Time Capsule is now live, accepting entries from people of all ages. Visit our new website www.jubileetimecapsule.org and tell us your story. Random result
Women in New Zealand earn only 72% of the male average wage. Source: Because You’re a Girl, The RCS and Plan UK, 2011
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A High Commissioners’ Banquet
Commonwealth week began in style on Sunday 13 March, when High Commissioners from over 40 Commonwealth countries were joined by dignitaries and officials from the Commonwealth Secretariat and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office for the High Commissioners’ Banquet, a new spin on an old RCS tradition.
Held at the Commonwealth Club, the Banquet was a glittering black-tie occasion featuring Commonwealthinfluenced fine food and wine. The Guest of Honour was the Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago and Commonwealth Chairperson-in-Office Ms. Kamla Persad-Bissessar MP, who gave an inspiring speech addressing the theme ‘Women as Agents of Change’. Speeches were also made by Baroness Prashar, President of the Royal Commonwealth Society, and Lord Howell, Minister of State responsible for the Commonwealth at the FCO. The evening was sponsored by Jaguar and the British Institute of Technology and E-Commerce. See pages 16 and 17 for photos from the event.
Across our branches Following the retirement of the Honourable Justice Charles Quin QC, the RCS Honorary Representative in the Cayman Islands, we are delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Lemuel Hurlston OBE, a former Chief Secretary of the Cayman Islands, as his successor. In Kiribati, the RCS Honorary Representative, the Honourable Robin Millhouse QC, has now returned to Australia on completion of his term as Chief Justice. We are therefore looking to appoint a successor. Meanwhile, it looks like the RCS overseas network will be growing ever larger; Mr Luis Covane is currently seeking to revive the Commonwealth Society of Mozambique and Ms. Te Moli Venaos Goiset is hoping to establish a branch of the RCS in Vanuatu.
Me and My Net: Get involved! According to the World Health Organisation, malaria is the cause of more than one million deaths annually across the globe. Universal bed net coverage is a key element of the international fight against malaria. While coverage has dramatically improved in recent years, challenges remain in promoting a culture of effective bed net use, especially amongst children, who are particularly vulnerable to malaria. ‘Me and My Net’ is an innovative creative competition that has just been launched by the RCS. The competition is open to anyone
under the age of 25 across the 54 countries of the Commonwealth; entrants are asked to send in photos, stories or films involving a mosquito net. Entries should be creative, instructive, or practical. Me and My Net encourages young people to think about the importance of mosquito nets in the fight against malaria; the project will also give ready-made tools for malaria campaigners to use around the Commonwealth, and provide an opportunity for those working in the field to learn more about how young people relate to mosquito nets. Me and My Net is kindly sponsored by Sumitomo Chemical.
The International Meeting 2011
For more information on Me and My Net, contact Claire Anholt at claire.anholt@thercs.org or on +44 (0)20 7766 9202.
When you book... If you wish to book a table in the restaurant, please telephone Reception (on 020 7766 9200) rather than the membership department. This way, we can ensure that your request is answered immediately.
Random Fact
We’re very excited that the International Meeting of the Royal Commonwealth Society 2011 is fast approaching. The Meeting will be held between 15 and 17 May at the Clubhouse of RCS Malaysia, just outside Kuala Lumpur, where delegates from across the Commonwealth – representing RCS branches and affiliated groups as well as other Commonwealth organisations – will gather to engage with the theme ‘Reinvigorating Commonwealth Civil Society’.
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Sessions will include presentations and discussions on the future of the RCS network and the charitable work of the RCS, as well as wider debates on the Commonwealth and the vital role of civil society within the association. The Meeting will also provide a great opportunity for RCS members from across the world to mingle and socialise. Make sure you check the next issue of RCS Exchange for reflections and photographs from this important event!
Barbados has one of the oldest Constitutions in the Commonwealth. The office of Governor and a Council were introduced in 1627, and a House of Assembly was constituted in 1639.
Contact us Email us at: info@thercs.org Telephone us on: 020 7766 9200 Write to us at: 25 Northumberland Avenue, London, WC2N 5AP
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ANNUAL REVIEW
THE RCS ANNUAL REVIEW
A SNAPSHOT OF THE LAST YEAR Inspiring and educating young people as global citizens. Promoting the modern Commonwealth and its values. Serving as an internationalist hub in central London. The past year has been a busy and successful one for the RCS. International Creative Competitions have been run by the RCS for more than one hundred years. For the first time in 2010, these competitions were brought together as one awards scheme with writing, film and photography categories. All three competitions took the 2010 Commonwealth theme ‘Science, Technology and Society’. The Commonwealth Essay Competition attracted more than 50,000 entries, the Photographic Awards more than 200 entries from 36 countries, and more than 100 young filmmakers entered the Commonwealth Vision Awards. For the very first time in 2010, several of the winners and runners-up were flown to London to participate in a week of workshops and cultural activities. The culmination of their week was a Gala Awards Dinner attended by the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar and acclaimed Director, Gurinder Chadha. The 2011 Young Commonwealth Competitions are now open to entries, with all three categories taking the theme ‘Women as Agents of Change’.
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Nkabom, the Commonwealth Youth Leadership Programme, brings a group of 18- to 25-year-olds from across the world to a different Commonwealth location every two years. Participants learn about conflict resolution, peace-building and the power of inter-cultural exchange before alumni join a global, self-sustaining network. The 2010 Nkabom programme took place in the Commonwealth’s newest member state, Rwanda, in September. 39 young people from 31 countries took part, each an emerging community leader. Highlights included leadership training; workshops to help participants develop an understanding of Rwanda; meetings with local young people and with high level government officials, including HE President Paul Kagame; and facilitator-training and action-planning to enable the group to pass on their learning to other young people. Participants are now working to plan their own regional Nkaboms in Vanuatu, India, Jamaica and South Africa. Our Commonwealth Youth Summits teach young people in the UK between the ages of 14 and 19 about key international development challenges and the interconnected consequences of global poverty. Early 2011 saw four regional Summits being held in Glasgow, Cardiff, Cambridge and Oxford with hundreds of young people, teachers and youth leaders taking part. A successful National Summit then followed in London with 47 participants, drawn from the regional Summits. As part of this initiative – which is funded by the UK Department for International Development – the RCS has developed a pack of multimedia teaching resources designed to enable educators all over the world to teach and learn about the Commonwealth. For more information on the Youth Summits and our new Educational Resources, see page 8.
“I have two personal highlights of the last year here at the RCS. One would have to be our Gala Awards Week in October 2010. For the first time, we raised the funds to bring a selection of winners in the Young Commonwealth Competitions to London for a week’s programme of workshops and visits. Seeing the young winners grow in confidence, learn about each others’ backgrounds and engage in the creative world was inspiring, and it made me realise that our work here really does give young people a unique chance to develop themselves. My second highlight would be the launch of the Jubilee Time Capsule. We asked 100 UK schools to send entries in advance of the launch to fill the capsule. The work we have already received has inspired me, brought tears to my eyes, made me laugh out loud and educated me about different customs around the world. It’s a good sign for the wonderful things to come!” Catherine Clark, Programmes Manager
“Seeing Vicky announced as the winner of the Vision Awards was a highlight – her shriek of joy endeared her to everyone attending the Gala Awards Ceremony – and especially how proud all the High Commissions in Cameroon were of her, issuing a joint press release celebrating her achievement. Having the opportunity to visit Rwanda was amazing, and furthermore, experiencing how much Nkabom has changed some of the participants has made it even more special – seeing some of the shyest participants show new-found confidence, and determination to make a difference in their communities, has been inspiring. On a personal level, getting to work with a wide variety of partners, colleagues and volunteers has been extremely rewarding, and made the long hours and hard work enjoyable!” Meera Chindooroy, Programmes Manager
Me and My Net is a creative competition which was launched by the RCS in April 2011 and is supported by Sumitomo Chemical. Me and My Net aims to encourage young people to think about the importance of mosquito nets in the fight against malaria, enabling school students to engage with malaria-awareness in a positive and proactive way, whilst developing their creative skills and international understanding. The Jubilee Time Capsule is an ambitious project designed to create a ‘peoples’ history’ of the last 60 years. We are asking people – young and old – all over the Commonwealth to contribute written work, photographs or films depicting what happened in their family, community or country on any given day since 1952. The best 21,915 entries – one per day – will be sealed into the Jubilee Time Capsule, to be presented to Her Majesty in her Diamond Jubilee year, 2012. Commonwealth Diaspora Dialogues was launched in January 2011 with a visit to Sri Lanka by a group of young British Sri Lankans. Organised in partnership with the peacebuilding charity International Alert, the aim of this initiative is to build bridges between Commonwealth Diasporas and their countries of origin. For more information on the trip to Sri Lanka, see page 10.
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A Commonwealth Election Observation Team had never reported on a UK General Election before 2010 when the RCS and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK brought a group of seven parliamentarians and four civil society officials to London. This pioneering initiative sought to encourage the sharing of democratic best practice between Commonwealth nations. The team attracted widespread media attention and it is hoped that they will serve as the first of several such election observation projects across the Commonwealth. ‘Trading places: the ‘Commonwealth effect’ revisited’, research published by the RCS in September 2010, showed that a Commonwealth country’s trade with another is likely to be worth a third to a half more than with a non-member, even after taking into account other possible contributory factors such as proximity and language. Our research also revealed that, contrary to expectations, the importance of Commonwealth members to each other as sources of imports and destinations for exports has grown by around a quarter and third respectively over the last two decades. This research was supported by the Worshipful Company of World Traders and published in collaboration with Landman Economics and the University of York.
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ANNUAL REVIEW
“It’s been a great year for events at the RCS and we’ve enjoyed hosting prominent speakers from all over the Commonwealth; Hon John Howard AC (Australia), Professor Rajiva Wijesinha MP (Sri Lanka), Dr. Martin Uhomoibhi (Nigeria), Hon Kamla PersadBissessar MP (Trinidad and Tobago) and Professor Margaret Wilson DCNZM (New Zealand) to name a few. In terms of the year ahead, whether its keynote addresses, book launches, dinners or art exhibitions, we’re looking forward to delivering an even more exciting range of events over the next 12 months. Also, look out for the new online registration system over the next few weeks…” Chi Kavindele, Events Manager
Because You’re a Girl, the RCS’s most recent research paper, published in partnership with development NGO Plan, explores the best and worst places in the Commonwealth to be born – and to grow up – a girl today. Read more about our findings on pages 12. High-profile public events have played an important role in the life of the RCS during the past year. Speakers have included Kenyan anti-corruption campaigner John Githongo and former Australian Prime Minister John Howard AC, and topics have ranged from Sri Lanka’s Post-Conflict Future to a fascinating debate on migration entitled What if there were no borders? The RCS has also played host to a diverse cultural calendar of events, including a rare joint exhibition by three of the Caribbean’s most successful artists, Carlisle Harris, Glenn Roopchand and Kenwyn Crichlow. This exhibition was followed by How Lucky We Are, a moving and beautifully-shot collection of photographs depicting residents of the Sreepur Village in Bangladesh as they grew from childhood to adulthood.
On Commonwealth Day 2011, the RCS worked with others to organise the UK’s largest inter-faith celebration in Westminster Abbey. Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh were joined by activist and singer Annie Lennox, economist Dambisa Moyo and Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy as they spoke on the subject of ‘Women as Agents of Change’. More than 2,000 guests, including 1,000 schoolchildren, filled the Abbey. You can read more about this unique event on page 9. Our international network is made up of more than 10,000 members linked by 81 self-governing RCS branches and representatives spread across 46 countries and territories. These branches promote RCS programmes in their own countries and run a range of independent cultural, educational, social and developmental initiatives. As part of the RCS’ commitment to strengthening its international network, we began a review process in April 2010. An International Meeting, due to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in May 2011, will be used as an important opportunity to consult on our findings and to plan a new way forward.
You can find out more about all our work at www.thercs.org or contact us on 020 7766 9200 / info@thercs.org. Copies of the RCS’ accounts for the financial year 2010-2011 will be published in May on the RCS website and our Annual General Meeting will be held on 15th June.
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“An early highlight of 2011 was working with Plan on our ‘Because You’re a Girl’ research. We measured all 54 Commonwealth countries against a range of indicators to discover the best and worst places in the Commonwealth to be born a girl today. New Zealand came top and Nigeria and Sierra Leone tied at the bottom of our ranking, but there were some surprises in between… Rwanda, one of the poorest countries in the Commonwealth, came in our top ten only just behind the UK. We’re now working towards the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting where we hope to secure a new commitment from leaders to improve girls’ education…we’ve got six months to make it happen!” Joanna Bennett, Head of External Affairs
“The highlights of the past year for me were, firstly, the success of the launch event in October where our three new categories of membership were launched, and, secondly, the number of lapsed members we have managed to tempt back with this clearer offer and pricing structure. A major area of work was the extensive member-database cleaning where we made members that had not paid their fees inactive, and filled in missing contact details as well as important demographic information. A challenge was managing the entire membership function. In just 2 years the number of membership staff has dropped from 3 to 1!” Kerrie Fuller, Membership Manager
2011-2013: A Strategic Plan Our Vision “To promote international understanding through our membership, educational programmes, events and publications, thereby helping to raise the profile of the modern Commonwealth and the values that underpin it.” Our Objectives 1. T o deliver public benefit through an innovative and effective portfolio of projects and activities that focus especially on broadening the horizons of young people in the UK and across the Commonwealth. 2. T o promote international understanding through a calendar of engaging and successful events for our members and the wider public. 3. T o be a champion, but also critical friend, of the Commonwealth, leading the way in boosting the association’s profile and helping to restore its position as a leading internationalist institution. 4. T o be London’s pre-eminent membership organisation for people interested in the world, offering a unique combination of great facilities, valuable networks and stimulating events. 5. T o be the hub of an effective and dynamic global network of members and affiliated organisations directly supporting our charitable objectives. 6. T o ensure that the RCS is sufficiently stable and resilient financially to deliver its key charitable objectives.
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Project Feature
‘Imagine you are the Indian Foreign Minister. You have one minute to present your country’s perspective on the challenge of malaria to world leaders from 53 other countries. Later, you have to defend your stance on nuclear weapons and explain how you feel about the Millennium Development Goals’. This is a taster of a Commonwealth Youth Summit…
Commonwealth Youth Summits 2011:
Be a Leader!
The RCS’ Commonwealth Youth Summits took place across the UK in February and March 2011, taking in Glasgow, Cardiff, Cambridge and Oxford. Up to 120 participants aged 14-18 took part in each event, learning about international development issues through interactive workshops and participation in a mock Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. The Summits particularly focused on the issues of universal primary education and the prevention of malaria. Participants were also introduced to the Commonwealth and its diversity and core values. As well as exposing students to these issues, the Summits aim to build skills in public speaking and advocating for change. A selection of participants from each region was then selected to attend April’s National Summit at Marlborough House, home of the Commonwealth Secretariat. They spoke about development challenges, and discussed how young people in the UK can address global inequalities. Participants were also given the opportunity to visit several Commonwealth High Commissions. The Commonwealth Youth Summits are funded by DFID and were organised in association with local partners including Glasgow City Council and Glasgow 2014 Legacy; Cardiff Council and Commonwealth Local Government Forum; St John’s College, Cambridgeshire City Council and the University of Cambridge; and St Edward’s School, Oxford. The workshops and debates were facilitated by a team of 17 young volunteers from 10 different Commonwealth countries. For more information, including photographs, videos, youth media team reports and communiqués, please visit http://www.thercs.org/youth/summits 8
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Introducing our new Education Resources… At the RCS, we believe it is essential that young people learn to think and act as global citizens. Only through understanding one another can we collaborate to tackle shared challenges like poverty, inequality and climate change. It was with this aim in mind that we created our exciting new Commonwealth Education Resources, launched in March. Prepared with secondary-school students in mind, these are intended for teachers and youth workers all over the world. As well as offering an introduction to the Commonwealth, the activities and lesson ideas in this pack aim to engage young people in the big issues facing Commonwealth countries. The resources use the Commonwealth as a vehicle to explore wider international issues: diversity, development and democracy. Sample activity: Introduce students to the term ‘diversity’ and briefly discuss what this means in their own lives. Give out the Commonwealth Letters to students along with a blank world map. The letters are based on real letters written by young people in Commonwealth countries, detailing their lives. Ask students to mark on the blank world map the country the letter is from. Then ask them to read the letter and reply to it. To access the Resources, visit http://www.thercs.org/youth/materials
EVENT FEATURE
Unity in Diversity: Commonwealth Day 2011 Monday 14 March, Commonwealth Day, was marked with the annual multi-faith Commonwealth Day Observance at Westminster Abbey. This year’s celebration saw Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh joined by prominent Commonwealth personalities including the activist and singer Annie Lennox, the economist Dambisa Moyo and Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy. Both The Queen and Annie Lennox focused their speeches on the Commonwealth theme ‘Women as Agents of Change’. Her Majesty encouraged Commonwealth citizens to give thought to the practical ways in which they can provide support to girls and women. Annie Lennox focused
on the importance of equipping and empowering women in turning the tide in the fight against HIV/ AIDS. Spectacular entertainment was provided by celebrated ‘Calypso Queen’ Denyse Plummer and the fusion act Dance Ihayami. The Observance was attended by 2000 guests.
An experience to cherish I started as an intern for the small events team at the RCS in January, and soon became immersed in the mammoth task of organising and delivering the Commonwealth Day Observance of 2011. Rather than simply being asked to perform routine tasks, I was able to take on substantial, exciting responsibilities. Every day I learnt something new and each day was more challenging than the last. On the day of the Observance I was responsible for receiving the performers and speakers including some very influential women such as Annie Lennox and Dambisa Moyo. There was a lot of running around, but the day was,
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surprisingly, relatively stress-free and I enjoyed it tremendously. When the actual service started I was able to join the 2000 guests to watch the Observance and take in what we had accomplished through months of hard work and long hours. Working on the Commonwealth Day Observance, seeing the Queen and meeting some remarkable people was definitely an amazing experience; one that I will cherish for many years to come. Sumeira Ayub, 23, is a recent graduate of Kingston University. She interned in the Events Department of the RCS between January and March 2011.
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Project Feature
In January 2011 the RCS, in partnership with International Alert, took a group of eight talented young British Sri Lankans, accompanied by two British MPs, Andrew Rosindell and John Mann, on a fact-finding visit to Sri Lanka. the group learned about peace, reconciliation and development on the island and the important role of both Sri Lankan and British Sri Lankan young people in that effort.
Voices of hope and reconciliation There were four key aims to this pilot ‘Commonwealth Diaspora Dialogues’ project; to bring together young Britons of varying Sri Lankan backgrounds; to build bridges between young British Sri Lankans and Sri Lanka; to encourage connections between the young delegates and the British political sphere; and to foster the sharing of experience between two important Commonwealth states.
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The group participated in a busy week of meetings, workshops and visits. In a trip spanning Colombo, the Hill Country, Anuradhapura and Vavuniya, the delegation met political leaders, youth activists, academics, and humanitarian and development workers. For more information on this project, contact Anushya Devendra at anushya.devendra@thercs.org
Viewing the situation through a different lens
Reflecting on how lucky we are
A different take on ‘my Sri Lanka’
From meetings with parliamentarians, to field visits out of the capital, it was a truly eye-opening trip. For me, the most important message of the trip was the need for openness and inclusivity. The fact that our group consisted of mixed ethnicities was a real strength and it was refreshing to have the opportunity to engage in frank discussions about potentially polarizing issues. Everything we’d seen and heard on this trip allowed us to start viewing the situation in Sri Lanka through a different lens, putting ourselves in the position of another and seeing it from their perspective. Nikini Jayatunga, 23
To say this experience was lifechanging is clichéd, but it’s hard to describe it in any other way. As a Tamil, our visit to a Tamil village in Vavuniya was a powerful experience. One hears stories of the conditions Tamils have endured in parts of the North and East but to see it in reality was incredibly challenging. To meet women who have lived through a 30 year conflict, a tsunami and catastrophic flooding, and still hold an unshakeable determination to provide for their families, really brought home how lucky we as Diaspora members are and how much our contributions matter to our brothers and sisters in Sri Lanka. Alan Ganesh, 23
Sri Lanka is a different place to me now. It’s still the beautiful little island I’ve always loved, but now it’s also the pain of its people, the issues they face, the hope they possess and the inspiring work being done to help them. Sri Lanka is a country of stark contrasts. Although I had always tried to learn about all aspects of life there, it was this trip that made it real through the people we met and the stories they shared. That myriad of issues and perspectives is a part of ‘my Sri Lanka’ now, and with a betterinformed outlook on the country and a stronger resolve than ever to help, I feel I am much better for it. Nilmini Herath, 28
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BOOK REVIEW
‘ Call of the White: Taking the World to the South Pole’ Summersdale Publishers Ltd, 2011 Maybe it was my prior connection to the Commonwealth Women’s Antarctic Expedition which meant I was gripped from the earliest pages of this book, or maybe it was the intimate, fast-paced style of Felicity’s account. Certainly I found it difficult to put down. ‘Call of the White’ tells the remarkable story of Felicity’s quest to take a team of eight ‘ordinary’ women from across the Commonwealth to the South Pole. From Brunei, New Zealand, Jamaica, India, Singapore, Cyprus and the UK, some of these women had never seen snow before, let alone dared to dream that they might become the first person from their country to reach the South Pole. But that is exactly what they did and their journey is one of exceptional fortitude. Yet throughout this book, I confess I was most intrigued by Felicity herself. She offers an intimate insight into the moments of frustration, triumph, joy and despair which characterised her herculean efforts to turn an outlandish idea into a reality. And, in laying bare her weaknesses and self-doubt, she emerges as an utterly remarkable woman. I heartily recommend this book to anyone and everyone. With one caveat. Don’t read it if you’re feeling lazy. This story will force you to dream big. Joanna Bennett is Head of External Affairs at the RCS. The royal commonwealth society
Interview with Felicity Aston Why was the Commonwealth aspect to your expedition important? The Commonwealth link was actually accidental! I wanted to organise an international expedition for women. I looked into taking a European group, but I happened to be doing another Commonwealth project at the time and I suddenly thought the Commonwealth would be a perfect fit; an eclectic mix of countries bringing together all sorts of women. The great thing about the human condition is bringing together people from different backgrounds and exchanging ideas. What was the message you were trying to put across? I think it’s very difficult for UK women to talk about female equality; you are often labelled as radical. This expedition was a chance to put out a completely positive statement about women being able to do virtually anything; for example, the participants from Cyprus and Brunei were the first people, of either gender, from their countries to ski to the South Pole. And the expedition gave them a platform to encourage others.
How do you think gender inequality in the Commonwealth can be addressed? I’m thrilled by the Commonwealth theme this year. I think people in the UK assume gender inequality is an overseas problem, but we need to start the fight for female equality at home. It’s really important that we examine our own lives and see what changes need to be made. What exciting adventure are you off to next? I’m really interested in the psychological aspect of expeditions. I’m hoping to go to the Antarctic alone, for a 60-day trek, to see how I react without that team support. I want to see my own limits. I’d love to do another women’s expedition too, bringing together women of different cultures, perhaps even from opposite sides in a conflict zone.
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COMMENT
New RCS research reveals best and worst places in the Commonwealth to be born a girl A report published in March by the RCS and Plan UK to mark the Commonwealth’s 2011 theme, ‘Women as Agents of Change’, reveals that New Zealand is the best place in the Commonwealth to be born a girl, whilst Sierra Leone and Nigeria are among the worst. Because You’re a Girl: Growing Up in the Commonwealth compares how well girls/women are doing relative to boys/ men in their country across eight indicators. The report uses best available data on indicators that reflect various aspects of a girl’s life cycle, from survival (e.g. life expectancy, nutrition) to achievement (e.g. athletes and medals at the Commonwealth Games, Commonwealth Scholarships won). The report suggests that it is political will – and not economic wealth – which is most important in advancing gender equality. Some of the poorest countries in the Commonwealth do relatively well against the eight indicators used in the report, while some rich countries remain a long way off gender equality. Key findings include: • F ive times more girls between the ages of 15 and 19 give birth in Nigeria and Sierra Leone than in New Zealand on average and girls in New Zealand can expect twice the number of years in school than girls in Nigeria.
• P overty levels do not always correlate with levels of gender inequality. Rwanda (10th) Mozambique (21st), and Malawi (23rd) all score highly despite being among some of the poorest countries in the Commonwealth. • T he Commonwealth’s richest country, Brunei Darussalam, only manages a rank of 23rd. • T he starkest evidence of gender inequality is revealed by the pay gap indicator. Even in the best performing countries, women only earn around four-fifths of male income on average. • D espite decades of campaigning in Western Commonwealth countries, Rwanda and South Africa top the female political participation table. Indeed Rwanda ranks first in the world in this regard. The United Kingdom ties with Pakistan at joint 17th. For more information on Because You’re a Girl, please contact Joanna Bennett at joanna.bennett@thercs.org
Readers Respond In the last issue of RCS Exchange, we asked ‘Are the Commonwealth Games good for the Commonwealth brand?’ Here is the response of Padraig Herlihy, Managing Director of Smaller World… I was able to attend the Commonwealth Games through my work in international sport, and I thought they were an excellent element of the Commonwealth brand. Of course, the preparations were unfortunate, and the media coverage 12
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even more unfortunate, but the Games themselves were a great success. The spirit of community generated by huge sporting events is clear for all to feel as they attend the events. Gary Kingston is right that most international sport is now staged as regional championships or as increasingly frequent World Championships. The Commonwealth Games are therefore unique in being a global event for a particular group of countries. They offer excellent
experience to a wide range of athletes, and let us not forget that the Commonwealth Games are the single most important sporting event in the world for a large number of Commonwealth countries and territories that do not get to attend the Olympics or Paralympics. Send us your thoughts on gender equality in the Commonwealth, and we will publish the best response in the next issue of RCS Exchange. Email joanna.bennett@thercs.org
School Gap
Adolescent Fertility
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Pay Gap
Gender gap
Gender Gap Rank
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GNI rank minus Gender Gap rank
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New Zealand
B
..
B
B
B
A
A
A
3.43
1
25,438
6
5
2
Seychelles
A
..
B
..
A
B
B
..
3.40
2
19,128
12
10
3
Dominica
B
..
B
..
A
A
C
..
3.20
3
8,549
20
17
4
Australia
B
..
C
A
C
A
B
A
3.14
4
38,692
3
-1
5
Canada
C
..
B
A
B
A
B
B
3.14
4
38,668
4
0
6
Trinidad and Tobago
A
A
B
B
B
B
B
C
3.13
6
24,233
8
2
7
Barbados
B
..
..
B
C
A
B
B
3.00
7
21,673
10
3
8
Saint Lucia
B
..
B
B
A
B
B
C
3.00
7
8,652
19
12
9
United Kingdom
GNI rank
Life Gap
1
Country
C
..
B
B
B
B
B
A
3.00
7
35,087
5
-2
10 Singapore
C
A
..
A
C
B
B
C
2.86
10
48,893
2
-8
43 Bangladesh
D
D
A
C
C
C
C
C
2.00
43
1,587
43
0
44 Tonga
D
..
B
A
..
D
D
C
2.00
43
4,038
31 -12
45 Zambia
C
B
..
D
C
C
C
C
2.00
43
1,359
45
2
46 Cameroon
D
B
D
D
C
B
C
C
1.88
46
2,197
38
-8
47 Gambia
C
C
B
C
D
D
C
C
1.88
46
1,358
46
0
48 India
C
C
D
C
C
B
C
D
1.88
46
3,337
34 -12
49 Solomon Islands
C
..
C
B
..
D
D
C
1.83
49
2,172
39 -10
50 Nigeria
D
C
D
D
C
A
C
D
1.75
50
2,156
40 -10
51 Pakistan
D
C
D
B
C
D
B
D
1.75
50
2,678
36 -14
52 Sierra Leone
C
B
D
D
D
C
C
C
1.75
50
809
52
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“ Our research shows that in those Commonwealth countries that have shown bold political will, there has been great progress towards realising girls’ rights. But my message to the Commonwealth today is that much more needs to be done. Globally 75 million girls remain out of school, robbed of a fulfilling future. Often undervalued and neglected, and held back by their gender and age, girls are prevented from contributing to the societies in which they live. This holds us all back.”
Marie Staunton, Chief Executive of Plan UK “ Our Report Cards make for worrying reading. Even the countries at the top of the Commonwealth class fall short of true gender equality. I hope Commonwealth leaders will show the political leadership that is needed to promote women as agents of change. This year, the Commonwealth has the opportunity to be at the vanguard of the fight for gender equality.“
Danny Sriskandarajah, Director of the RCS The royal commonwealth society
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MEMBER and staff PROFILEs
Up Close & Personal Name: James Smith Nationality: British RCS Member since: 2010 Occupation: Chief Executive of the Aegis Trust (http://www.aegistrust.org), an organisation which aims to prevent crimes against humanity worldwide Interests: Running, the occasional trip to the gym and watching out for local wildlife What motivated you to join the RCS?
The Aegis Trust had hired a room at the RCS, and I thought it was a great venue. Also, I heard about the RCS from my brother, who suggested I join because it seemed like it would be a useful hub. I live outside London, but am in the city once or twice a week with my work. I have lots of meetings at Westminster, so the location of the RCS is perfect, plus it’s a great place to work and hold meetings. What do you enjoy most about being a member?
I really like the fact that the values of the RCS tie in with the values of the Aegis Trust. It’s nice to be in a place where you know that is the case. Turning to the organisation you co-founded, the Aegis Trust does much work in Rwanda and strongly advocates the memorialisation of the genocide. Do you think there are lessons from the Rwandan approach to memory and justice for other Commonwealth countries?
I think the key lesson from the Rwandan experience is that, in countries recovering from atrocities, there is a benefit to combining ‘conventional’ 14
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justice with relevant local initiatives; in Rwanda, the Gacaca courts. With Aegis, we believe the development of memorials and memory is an important part of the justice process. It is vital to acknowledge the crime, have a dignified space to remember it, and look forward to the future. In Rwanda there is a real acknowledgement that memory needs to be used to bring people together. Aegis focuses on educating the decision-makers of tomorrow not to hate. How can Commonwealth governments put this into practice in policy terms?
There are many examples of excellent practice in this area within Commonwealth countries, particularly South Africa and Rwanda. Commonwealth leaders should examine this good practice, and
actively apply these examples. The focus needs to be on prevention, not post-atrocity engagement. What role would you like to see the Commonwealth play in preventing atrocities like ethnic cleansing?
Leadership in preventing crimes against humanity and genocide sometimes best comes from countries that have gone through atrocities. The Rwandan role in Darfur is a good example. People with such experience understand in a profound way the consequences of failing to protect civilians. Such leaders often not only carry a moral authority – they can spot the warning signs at an early stage. The earlier we can respond with preventive education and diplomatic actions, the less need there will be for heavyhanded emergency interventions.
Be profiled in RCS Exchange…
Are you an RCS member? Do you have an interesting story to tell? Being featured on our member profile page is a great way to let other members know who you are and what line of work you’re in. We’re keen to build a greater sense of community amongst RCS members. If you would be willing to be featured, please send an email to joanna.bennett@thercs.org.
message FRom the memBeRshIP manageR
Since the 1st January 2011, we have been asking renewing members to renew their membership into our new categories: Full Membership and Off Peak Membership.
We’ve had a very positive response We’ve had ositive from members renewing so far – many saying that the new categories (particularly Off Peak) meet their needs more effectively. Those members that are overseas for example, will pay less upfront in their membership fee and then only buy a day pass when they wish to visit the club during the day. This has created a much better valuefor-money system. also, many retired members living in the country have mentioned that they only use the club for the odd dinner or event here and there and so it means that they do not need to pay the full membership fee when they use the club so little.
i’m also pleased to say that our membership income has increased 6% in 2010 on 2009’s figures, which means that we are better able to secure the future of the charity in financial terms. We are actively promoting membership to those that work for charities, those that are under the age of 35 and those that are linked to our partner organisations such as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. This has also meant that our community of likeminded individuals that care about the world and the impact we make as a charity is slowly but surely building. We still have a lot of do in terms of increasing the number of benefits
that members receive that are offered by third parties and an online renewal system through the Members’ area of the website, but these plans are already in the implementation phases. as always, we value your feedback about how to make membership of the Society more worthwhile, so please do contact me via email at kerrie.fuller@thercs.org with your errie.fuller@thercs.org deas and comments. ideas and comments.
Kerrie Fuller, Membership Manager
meet the team RCs staFF unDeR the sPotlIght name: tiM DREw PosItIon: DiRECtoR oF FiNaNCE
B
orn and raised in Port Talbot – the Paris of South Wales – Tim joined the RCS in the summer of 2009. as a child, Tim dreamt of being a butcher or a lorry-driver, but he eventually settled for a career in accountancy instead. in his spare time Tim enjoys watching cricket and rugby, and he’d love to attend the Rugby World Cup in new zealand later this year. wheRe DID you woRk BeFoRe joInIng the RCs?
Before joining the RCS, i was the head of Financial Reporting at the international hiV/aiDS alliance in The ROyaL COMMOnWeaLTh SOCieTy
Brighton; prior to that i worked in the finance departments of various companies including Ba and The Body Shop. after spending quite a long time in corporate environments, i made a conscious decision to work for organisations that do something good and are not simply about making money. what Do you enjoy most aBout woRkIng at the RCs?
i like that i get to meet lots of interesting people. also, the job never stays the same; things are always changing around here. i have a good relationship with both the Director and the Chairman, and that makes things a lot easier!
what was youR most memoRaBle Day at the RCs?
it was probably my first day here, when the then-Foreign Secretary David Miliband came to launch the Commonwealth Conversation. i thought, if this place can get the Foreign Secretary here on my first day, this is somewhere i want to be. exChange
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CLUB NEWS
All the latest from
Searcys
at the Commonwealth Club
The Commonwealth Kitchen’s ‘Market Menu’ changes regularly, bringing you a taste of different cuisines from across the countries of the Commonwealth. The next four months will see a typically diverse mix of Commonwealth influences being incorporated into the menu… Call 020 7766 9200 to make your reservation now! COUNTRY
NATIONAL DAY
MENU STARTS
Cameroon
20 May
6 May
Tonga
4 June
27 May
UK
12 June
9 June
Canada
1st July
24 June
Bahamas
10 July
8 July
Maldives
26 July
22 July
Jamaica
6 August
5 August
Malaysia
31 August
19 August
Commonwealth High Commissioners’ Banquet
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Plus‌ a 15% discount for RCS members! The Commonwealth Kitchen, under the leadership of head chef Oliver Tobias, serves up an eclectic menu of modern European classics with a Commonwealth twist. A light and spacious dining room punctuated by a revolving wall of Commonwealth artwork provides the backdrop to a wonderful culinary experience. The wine list has been drawn from across the Commonwealth with a smattering of Old World classics to complement the exquisite food. Please remember that RCS members receive a 15% discount on food when dining in the Commonwealth Kitchen for lunch or dinner.
Spotlight on the cuisine of‌ Cameroon The cuisine of Cameroon encompasses both traditional and European (particularly French and Portuguese) elements. Staple foods in Cameroon include cassava, plantain, rice, maize, yams and corn. Fried and roasted fish, poultry and meatincluding bush meat- are widely consumed. Popular Cameroonian dishes include Brochettes, grilled skewers of meat, and Ndole, bitterleaf mixed with ingredients including peanuts, melon seeds, tomatoes, onion, garlic, pepper and meat or shrimp. Fufu is a common dish which sees starchy products such as yams or plantains mashed, formed
into balls, and dipped into a variety of sauces. Meals are often accompanied by water, millet beer or palm wine. A wide variety of produce is grown in Cameroon. Vegetables include tomatoes, bitterleaf, aubergines and cassava. Fruits include avocados, citrus fruits, mangoes, papayas and bananas.
New at the Commonwealth Club: Book your meeting rooms online NEW!
The royal commonwealth society
For smaller meetings at the Commonwealth Club, you can now reserve one of three room spaces online and receive instant confirmation by email. Vault 1 & 2 can accommodate a maximum of 6 guests whilst the Mackwoods Room can accommodate up to 8. To book these rooms online, please visit: www.searcys.co.uk/ the-commonwealth-club/book-meeting-room/
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travel Travel
Inside
Malaysia
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The Federation of Malaysia is located in south-east Asia and joined the Commonwealth in 1957. The International Meeting of the RCS 2011 will take place in Malaysia in mid-May.
When to go The main rainy season in the east and in Sabah and Sarawak is from October to February. September to December is the wettest period on the west coast. The climate is hot and humid all year round.
People and Place Capital: Kuala Lumpur Language: Bahasa Malaysia Peoples: Malay, Chinese, Indigenous tribal communities, Indian Religion: Muslim, Buddhist, Chinese faiths and religions, Christian, and Hindu Size (sq km): 329,750 Population: 25,274,133
Highlights Kuala Lumpur: The capital city is a fascinating mix of old and new. Stroll through the bustling night markets picking up bargain souvenirs, or take the lift up to the dizzying viewing platform of the Petronas Towers. The city has a buzzing Chinatown and an intoxicating Little India.
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Sabah & Sarawak: Malaysia’s states on Borneo provide access to mountains, rainforests and stunning coastline. In Sabah, walkers can scale the craggy granite peak of Mount Kinabalu; the view from the top at dawn is worth the energy exerted. There is great diving in Sipadan, whilst Borneo is also famously home to wild orangutan. In Sarawak attractions include staying in a traditional Malaysian long house or visiting the charming old town of Kuching.
Perhentian Islands: You will find aquamarine waters and powdery sand in this beautiful marine park off the northeast coast. Dive or snorkel and see turtles, sharks and shipwrecks! Taman Negara National Park is also well worth a visit. Canopy walkways allow a great view of inhabitants including tiger, rhino and Asian elephant. Consuming pleasures Food & Drink: Every type of south-east Asian cooking is available. Many dishes are based on a blend of spices, ginger, coconut milk and peanuts. Popular dishes include Laksa, a spicy coconut milk-based noodle soup, and Roti Chenai, a fried flat bread usually dipped into a spicy sauce. Alcohol is allowed in most areas. Shopping & Souvenirs: Highlights include silverware, brassware, batiks, and jewellery.
Something for everyone… How Zean Shiung, 18, is a student in Kuala Lumpur. In 2010, he participated in the RCS’ Nkabom project.
I
f forced to pick the two key elements of what makes up Malaysia, I’d pick its food and its beautiful scenery.
WEXAS Recommends Malay Archipelago Cruise Free flights with Orion Expedition Cruises Borneo is the third largest island in the world and famous for its most treasured inhabitants: the endangered and majestic orang-utan. It is a paradise of secluded beaches, coral reefs, and floral, faunal and biological richness. Explore this area in style with Orion Expedition Cruises and, for a limited time only, WEXAS will be able to offer you free international flights on selected departures. Day 1 Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia Day 2 Pulau Labuan, Labuan Day 3 Pulau Tiga, Sabah Day 4 Klias Wetlands, Sabah Day 5 Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Day 6 Simalajau National Park, Sarawak Day 7 Semonggoh Rehabilitation Centre, Kuching Day 8 Tanjung Datu National Park, Sarawak Day 9 Bako National Park, Sarawak Day 10 At sea Day 11 Singapore Prices from: £4,770 pp for 10-night full board cruise including entertainment & educational programmes. Free international flights available on specific departures and cabin types only. Book by 31 May 2011. Terms and conditions apply, offer subject to availability. For more information and to book please call 0207 664 2257. The royal commonwealth society
From the fact that Malaysians greet one another by asking if a person has eaten or not, you can tell that we take what we eat very seriously. Indian-Muslim Mamak food fosters multicultural integration; Hakka food demonstrates wise ‘un-wasteful’ usage of ingredients; Malay food showcases creative, innovative experiments with spices; and Cantonese dishes reflect explosions of rich tastes in their finest details…… every cuisine has characteristics worth exploring! All of these foods blend perfectly into a cultural melting pot of Malaysia, complementing one another. Now you know why Malaysians never get bored of our own food. The cultural diversity of Malaysia reflected in our food is fittingly staged in a land filled with almost every backdrop conceivable. Our capital Kuala Lumpur is a dynamic hub with limitless supply of energy. The wellpreserved rainforests, especially the Taman Negara National Park (the oldest tropical rainforest in the world!) is not something nature-lovers can miss. On top of that, almost every state in Malaysia has its own beaches, some boasting world-class turtle and coral preservation sanctuaries. Our islands are popular destinations for visitors seeking a tropical get-away. At the same time, rich historical sites dating back to the Malacca Maritime age and even the Paleolithic era are history-lovers’ favourites, while mountainous regions stretched along Malaysia host adventure sports attracting those looking for some excitement! Simply put, this little piece of land has something for everyone! If you are visiting Malaysia, aside from the shopping, the laid-back tropical vacation, or even the scrumptious food you will be expecting, I personally request that you pay attention to the Malaysian way of life; let our unique take on multiculturalism impress you, and let our warmth and hospitality melt your heart. exchange
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Events Diary
Events at the rcs Looking forward…to what’s on May
JULY
Because You’re a Girl: The Commonwealth Report Card, 4 May, 6.30pm In March, the RCS and Plan UK published new research exploring the best and worst places in the Commonwealth to be born a girl. Join us for this debate on issues raised by the report and the importance of tackling gender inequality across the Commonwealth.
Members’ Afternoon Tea, 18 July, 3.30pm A rare opportunity to enjoy afternoon tea on the terrace of the House of Lords, this event is open to RCS members and their guests.
Tube, Thames and the Anatomy of London, 6 May 10 June Based on the idea of the Tube representing London as a never-ending series of journeys, this exhibition of paintings by Tony Phillips presents snapshots of contemporary situations, linked with images from the city’s past, presenting a ‘drama’ in which time, Londoners, and the city fabric form an overlapping narrative.
Art of Change, 18 July - 5 August Art of Change is an exhibition of diverse media, by female representatives of all 54 countries of the Commonwealth. The exhibition will focus on women artists who create or inspire change. A number of notable women will be taking part, including Nike Davis Okundaye of Nigeria and Mariyam Omar of the Maldives. Women as Agents of Change in…Politics, 22 July, 6.30pm This invitation-only dinner will be hosted in partnership with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Baroness Hayman, Lord Speaker of the House of Lords will address more than two hundred Parliamentarians on the fascinating subject of women in politics.
SEPTEMBER
JUNE Women as Agents of Change in…Diplomacy, 6 June, 6pm Hosted in partnership with Women in Diplomatic Service and Young Diplomats London, this debate will explore the role of women in diplomacy, including their achievements and the challenges they continue to face. Searching, by Ken McCalla, 14 June - 15 July Searching is an exhibition of prints and paintings by artist Ken McCalla. This body of work is a unique collection which illustrates a personal search for cultural identity which stretches from England to Jamaica to Africa. RCS Annual General Meeting, 15 June, 6pm The AGM is an important opportunity to catch up on the past year in the life of the RCS and to have your say on its future.
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Women as Agents of Change in…Religion, 6 September, 6.30pm Every major religion in the world is practised in the Commonwealth. But what role do women play in Islam, Christianity or Hinduism? Do the world’s faiths impact positively or negatively on gender equality? We will explore these questions and many more in this important debate.
Don’t miss out!
Please note that this What’s on Guide gives only an indication of the range of events we have planned for the coming months. To receive full details of our events programme, plus important membership news and information, please subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter by sending your email address to membership@thercs.org. You can book places at all of our events through our website, but if you have any questions, please contact our Events Team, eventsteam@thercs.org / 020 7766 9210. We look forward to seeing you soon!
ART
Searching Prints and paintings by Ken McCalla The RCS is delighted to announce a major exhibition to be held between mid-June and mid-July at the Commonwealth Club. Searching is a collection of original prints and acrylic paintings by British artist Ken McCalla. This body of work is a unique collection which illustrates the artist’s personal search for his own cultural identity stretching from England to Jamaica to Africa. This search is reflected in a splendour of colours
The royal commonwealth society
which mirrors classical African realism of centuries past. Since completing his Fine Arts degree in 1984 at the Central School of Art & Design, Ken has produced works in a wide range of mediums, from theatre set designs to potato printing! Whichever tools he is using, Ken’s skill in visual communication has opened and excited his audience. Drawing on his rich cultural heritage, his art explores personal growth and human relationships.
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“ This year, the Commonwealth celebrates the important role that women already play in every walk of life and in every Commonwealth country – from the richest to the poorest areas, across continents and oceans, from villages to places of international debate, in every culture and faith – recognising that women are ‘agents of change’ in so many ways.” Her Majesty The Queen “ The challenges facing women around the world are a clarion call for the Commonwealth to lead the international community towards economic growth, reducing poverty, ensuring the promotion of human rights, and ultimately establishing good governance.” Dr Dambisa Moyo “ There’s so much to be done, but with willpower, vision and commitment, I believe that positive changes can, and absolutely must, be achieved.” Annie Lennox OBE