How CWU Youth Changed My Life
December 16 2015
CWU Youth has been one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences of my life. The youth section of our union has made me a better more rounded person and I have made friends I will never forget.
In case some of you don’t know me, my name is Gary Daw and I represent the South West region on the National Youth Committee. I am immensely proud to sit on our committee as CWU Youth has improved my life considerably. I want to break this blog into 3 sections and explain to you what CWU Youth has done for my life.
Confidence
Before I became active with the youth movement I was quite a shy guy who would sit back and listen to others. Our youth sector has taught me it’s ok to stand up and tell people what you believe in, even if it is different to the mainstream view. Without going to events like the NYEE and Youth Conference I would never have felt confident enough to get up and speak in front of strangers but thanks to the workshops and help and comradeship of the CWU YOUTH I now relish that opportunity.
Education
Being involved with CWU YOUTH has taught me so much. I was never a high flyer in school or the most educated of my friends. However, CWU YOUTH has educated me politically and socially. It has opened my eyes to the wider view on issues such as the EU and other political issues. Also being part of the youth sector brings you closer to the people who run our union. Any of you who came to this 
year’s NYEE would have seen the opportunity we had as youth officers to sit and talk to our GS Dave Ward. Learning from our national officers and more experienced trade union representatives is possibly the biggest and best education I have had in my lifetime. My advice to any young member is if you see any official at one of our events do not be afraid or in awe of them. They all started in the same position as you and are always willing to help or answer your questions.
Friendship
The most important of my 3 points is the last. Over the past 3 years I have made friends with people all over the country and world. I will never forget the friendships I have forged whether it’s within my region or nationwide. I have met people who have made me think, laugh and sometimes even cry with their stories. I urge all of you reading this to join us at Youth Conference in January it will be an experience you will never forget or regret.
Gary Daw
National Youth Committee
Plymouth & East Cornwall Branch
If you are interested in attending CWU Youth Conference 2015 please contact your branch ASAP – registration for delegates, visitors and observers will be opening very soon.
