Last week we introduced you to three of the seven students who will form the International Student Panel at PTPI’s Global Youth Forum in November. Here are interviews with two more!
Mohammed Lamarana Barry
Where do you live? I am from The Gambia but I do not live in Banjul. I will be moving to South Africa for my studies in September 2010.
What is one thing people may not know about your country that you’d like them to know? My country is where Alex Haley‘s ancestor Kunta Kinte came from! People mistake us for a French speaking country instead of English. Besides that – we are the smiling coast of Africa!
What is your favorite song or musical group at the moment? My favorite song is called “La Difference”, sang by Salif Keita. Although I do not speak his language, deep inside my heart I understand what he is trying to put across.
If you had a free day to do whatever you wanted, how would you spend it? It would be one of the greatest days of my life as I spend most of my time doing something. Let me think…I will to to the beach and have some sunshine, travel to rural communities and also jump on my bed whilst listening to music by Salif Keita. Of course I will Skype and Facebook as well!
Why did you want to be a part of the International Student Panel? I represent the voices of an unheard generation and speak for those who did not have a voice before I spoke! There is a need for someone to represent the valid and clear views and concerns of other young people on a global platform like this and therefore it is a huge pleasure for me to accept the trust bestowed upon me to be part of the ISP.
Pakinam Moussa
Where do you live? Beheira, a city in the northern part of Egypt that is famous for its farms and green areas.
What is one thing people may not know about your country that you’d like them to know? Ancient Egypt was one of the earliest civilizations in the world and Egyptian culture has influenced cultures of Europe and Africa. It is also famous for the mummies, as it was discovered that Egypt has more than 1 million human and animal mummies. Finally, Anwar El Sadat was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for signing the Egyptian-Israeli Peace Treaty in Washington, D.C. USA and finally stopped the war in Egypt.
What is your favorite song or musical group at the moment? “Fairytale” by Alexander Rybak.
If you had a free day to do whatever you wanted, how would you spend it? I would go to the beach with my family or friends, or help in a community service.
Why did you want to be a part of the International Student Panel? To know other people, culture and places. I’d like to know more about others’ PTPI experiences, as well.