One resilient common future

Milano Gogol
  • 3 Weeks Ago - 2024-04-11 00:00:00
On 11 March, five of Windhoek Gymnasium’s grade 10 learners - Hadassah Afrikaner, Vickipe Matomola, Mercy Tierspoor, Kari Mudge and Milano Gogol - were accompanied by Ms Berenice Böck to represent the school at the annual ‘Commonwealth Day’. This special event was hosted by the British High Commission in Namibia and was celebrated at the Parliament Gardens.
This year marked an incredible milestone: The 75th anniversary of the modern Commonwealth, which was formed on 26 April 1949 by the adoption of the London Declaration, was celebrated. Through this implementation, the Commonwealth was defined as a ‘free association’ of independent member countries and one in which all members have an equal say, regardless of their size or economic status. This ensured that even the smallest countries had a voice and could impact the Commonwealth.
Furthermore, this auspicious celebration was held under the theme of ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth’. The learners were welcomed to the Houses of Parliament by enthusiastic singing and dancing by the Satoka Kavango Cultural Group and were able to learn more about the close partnership conducted by the Commonwealth by listening to several speeches and statements. Among these was a speech written by King Charles III himself. His speech was cordially conveyed by Professor Loide Kasingo, the deputy speaker of the National Assembly.
Soon after this, they were invited to a presentation of food: All ranging from different Commonwealth member states’ cultures. From the Malaysian salads to the Indian rice delicacies – they indulged themselves in everything!
In conclusion, this event marked yet another breakthrough in which Gimmies had the opportunity to gain more knowledge about their own country as well as foreign ones. They were once again reminded that ‘resilience’ is the key to success and that each and every one of them has the opportunity to impact the world. Notably, by being part of the Commonwealth of Nations: An alliance born out of trust and unity.