Democracy Now: Inspiring Change on a Global Stage
Democracy Now:
Inspiring Change on a Global Stage
“The Aspen Institute’s Global Changemakers event was an incredible experience. The opportunity to learn from so many different people each with their own fascinating stories and experiences was an absolute privilege. The combination of intellectual and social discussions was the perfect mix to make for a memorable experience that got the most out of everyone.” Peter Southey-Jensen, Aspen NZ Youth Alumni & Scholarship Recipient
The recently concluded Global Changemakers: Democracy Now Workshop in Berlin, was a unique opportunity for collaboration on a global scale for our Aspen NZ alumni scholarship recipients, Parminder Kaur and Peter Southey-Jensen. Organised by the Institute (Aspen US) and hosted by Aspen Germany, the workshop united 40 young leaders from the Institute's International Partners network, spanning 13 countries. Over an immersive four-day experience, participants engaged in thought-provoking seminars, a dynamic geopolitical simulation, meetings with German leaders, and visits to the Bundestag (German parliament) and the Stasi Prison.
Parminder, a communications adviser for Parliamentary Engagement at NZ Parliament, and Peter, a policy adviser shaping NZ's Energy Strategy at MBIE, drew inspiration from the diverse perspectives shared by their global counterparts. The workshop not only deepened their comprehension of pressing global challenges but also fostered a heightened appreciation for NZ's democratic system. The exposure to varied viewpoints underscored the critical importance of nurturing democracy, shedding light on the strengths inherent in our own democratic practices.
Reflecting on her takeaways, Parminder emphasised the pivotal role of meaningful engagement in addressing democratic challenges such as the surge in misinformation, a growing loss of trust in public institutions, and global inequality. She highlighted the empowering realisation that comes from understanding the impact young people can have when uniting with like-minded individuals.
"It is clear that meaningful engagement plays a critical role in navigating and addressing challenges to democracy such as the rise in misinformation, a growing loss of trust in public institutions, and various forms of global inequality." Parminder Kaur, Aspen NZ Scholarship Recipient
Both Parminder and Peter underscored the significance of the geopolitical simulation centred around the G20 summit in Rio 2024. This simulation broadened their understanding of the complexities involved in balancing diverse global perspectives, illustrating why transformative change is often a gradual process. Other notable highlights from the workshop included candid conversations with Tobias Lindner, a German member of parliament, and Bobi Wine, a Ugandan politician, artist, and activist dedicated to a vision of a united, democratic Uganda.
Post-workshop, Peter now sees the world as smaller, more interconnected and less intimidating and is inspired to contribute to strengthening NZ's democratic system. Parminder gained actionable ideas for her parliamentary role to enhance connection and engagement, particularly within minority communities. Both emphasised the workshop's value in presenting diverse international perspectives, stressing the importance for New Zealanders to stay engaged in global affairs despite geographical isolation—a practice that enriches our democratic system.
In the spirit of "Democracy Forward: Inspiring Change in Today's World," this workshop has ignited inspiration, connected young 'Global Changemakers', and reinforced the collective commitment to upholding and rebuilding democratic structures and ideals. We extend our gratitude to Aspen Germany, Aspen Institute US, and all International Partners for contributing to the success of this memorable event, and congratulate our Aspen NZ Youth Alumni, Parminder and Peter, for representing NZ on the world stage.
