Norman Gilbert, aged 30, Grenada

Its probably very uncommon for the average young person at my age to be up at about 4:30am to prepare for work. I guess living alone as well as living in the countryside and working as far south as the capital city requires no less.

Work begins at 8:00am at the Government of Grenada Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Culture, functioning as a youth officer/ project coordinator. It is very interesting to have the responsibility for overseeing the programmes of the ministry including the youth enterprise programme, youth parliament, youth rehabilitation programme and youth month activities.

On a daily basis I will be in contact with young people who participate in these programmes, sometimes as a facilitator, sometimes to provide technical assistance.

Usually after the lunch period I will attend meetings with school-based groups followed by meetings with community-based groups later in the afternoon. After all that is completed I am now stressed with the long drive home only to arrive at about 7:30pm to have some much deserved rest.

The Commonwealth to me means the promotion of basic social values, fundamental principles of good governance transparency and accountability; principles which are necessary for us to live in harmony with a true sense of pride and additionally respecting each other for what they are worth.

I stand proud to be a member of the Commonwealth of nations recognizing all that we have achieved as a people, coming from a small nation and becoming more visible, vocal and vibrant.