Demonstrating the TRANSITion – @Y4PT

 

Among 3 Ps in every organization – People, Profit and Planet, we at Y4PT have been focusing majorly on 2 Ps  since our inception. PLANET and PEOPLE are at the core of this organization. We are a group of young people believing in new ideas and technology, agile ways of contributing towards making our planet “A better place to live” rather now, we “SuRvIVe”.

In UITP Global Summit- 2017, Montreal’s Mayor Denis Coderre summarized human dimension in a sentence of particular meaning nowadays: ‘In Canada, we build bridges, not walls’.  I’m certainly in an agreement with you sir. We acknowledge the collaboration required by all countries in making our lives better. But how about border lines we draw even for young people who want to contribute in a change/Transition to lead further in continuing our legacy.  How about those pseudo norms we generate and those stereotype approach without understanding the core motive of their travel.

Here we go!!  We had a very bad news for few of the protagonist at Y4PT in both months ( April and May’2017) who have been marvelously engaged in all the activities of Y4PT since years. Those representatives were also a part of UN conference speaking on behalf of their countries and creating huge talent pool for Y4PT’s further initiatives. Are you wondering what??   Yes, these individuals were not provided a visa to enter Canada. What a shock!!  On the other hand the entire reworking is required at Y4PT Hackathon because we at Y4PT is now supposed to shift their responsibilities to other individuals “who could make it to Canada” In short, a quick damage control was required.

An astonishing fact!! These youth were still with all the enthusiasm and remained at their best, supported us virtually.  They were tweeting voraciously, posting on social media, likes, shares, blogs, tag the decision makers in the tweets, voicing the unity and spirit of Y4PT throughout the Hackathon till the winners were declared in closing ceremony of UITP Global Summit.  Ultimately it was very exciting and painful at times for not having these young people around but their presence remained throughout the event.

 We have always realized Y4PT is all about bringing positive energy and likeminded individuals working together for a cause. How can we stay immune now? We urge the authorities to remain supportive and understand the cause before they reject such individuals. “Processes are good” but they need to be human friendly. Processes can’t remain at someone’s behest.

Yet we thank for all the recognition and support Y4PT has received. The impeccable response from participants at Montreal gives us courage and confidence, to build ideas and make this world “a better place to live”. Y4PT thank all the youth participants and invite more youth power to join this cause.

Feeble voice from a rejected youth “to visit Montreal”

Nabeel Faraz

Y4PT, India