Why did you decide to take part in the Development Youth Prize 2006?
I was interested in developing countries, especially Africa. I am also a creative person and therefore the competition was something that immediately got my attention.
What did you learn by participating?
There were so many interesting themes about development in Africa that I wanted to read much more about it! I really learned a lot about Africa, the EU and, of course, about development worldwide. The prize gave me a better view of the problems which Africa has to deal with. Before the contest, I didn’t know a lot about these topics. Now I can tell other people about the importance of development cooperation in Africa.

How would you describe the trip to Africa?
The trip to Rwanda was a true eye-opening experience: so many different people and places! We saw a Rwandese high school, where we got the chance to speak with students of our own age. We went to the genocide memorial centre and to the amazing Nkundabana project, where we met orphans. We attended the opening ceremony of the new Kicukiro health centre and we visited the youth centre in Kigali. Last but not least, we met Louis Michel, the European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, and Paul Kagame, the Rwandese President.

Did you make new friends during the trip to Africa?
I did not only meet new Rwandese people but also students from every country of the EU. This made our trip even more unique.

How did this experience affect your life?
At the moment, I study medicine in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. I joined an international medical students organisation and we are now organising a Masterclass about the Millenium Development Goals of the UN. We want to increase the awareness of students about development.

Would you recommend other students to take part in the competition?
It is an exceptional experience! I would recommend all students in the EU to take part in this competition. Even if you don’t win, it is always good to know more about Africa and development cooperation.