The British High Commission in St John’s is launching an initiative – the Resident
British Commissioner RBC for a Day campaign – which seeks to expose young
citizens and residents of Antigua and Barbuda to the exciting world of diplomatic
relations.
The initiative, which is being introduced with the support of the Directorate of
Gender Affairs DoGA, urges candidates between the ages of 18 and 25 to submit
a two-minute long video explaining why they should be the RBC for a day and
how the role aligns with their aspirations. Additionally, male entrants are asked to
include at least one recommendation to reduce the incidence of male suicides, and
females are asked to include at least one recommendation for the reduction of
gender–based violence against women and girls.
Candidates must also like and follow both the Resident Commissioner to Antigua
and Barbuda and the Directorate of Gender Affairs’ Facebook pages.
Resident British Commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda, Lindsy Thompson
explained why this opportunity will be worthwhile for the successful young man
and woman.
This is an amazing opportunity for two young people to experience what it’s like
running a diplomatic mission, and what that takes. Our winners will get to
experience engaging with Ministers and Senior Officials, the media, host a themed
lunch, learn about our projects, and get to meet staff working at the British High
Commissions in St John’s and elsewhere in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean,”
she stated.
“Importantly they will be able to use their position as RBC for a day to give a
voice to important issues surrounding International Men’s Day, and the 16 Days of
Activism. My team and I are really looking forward to seeing your entries!
Entries should be submitted to rbc.antiguaandbarbuda@gmail.com by 27 October
2023 and the announced winners are expected to undertake their responsibilities
during International Men’s Day and 16 Days of Activism commemorations.
The Communications Officer within the Directorate of Gender Affairs, Ms. Raisa
Charles underscored the importance of the campaign.
“The RBC for a Day Campaign falls in the DoGA’s Women in Leadership and
Masculinities portfolios and allows us to fulfill our core mandate of gender
mainstreaming,” she explained.
“Youth perspectives on gender issues are critical. They not only show us what
historical inequalities persist but also reveal new threats facing our community. By
raising awareness among the youth we give them the power to protect themselves
in gender-based violence and inequality in all its forms and to shape a society
where these issues are reduced.”
Meanwhile, Political and Projects Officer at the British High Commission,
Kadeem Joseph reminded prospective candidates that such opportunities serve as a
meaningful boost to their professional profile, and allow them to gain key insights
into the world of diplomacy.
