A former UEA student is now representing young people at the United Nations General Assembly

She beat hundreds of other applicants to the job


A UEA graduate has beaten hundreds to represent young people at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

Takyiwa Danso, 23, studied International Development at the UEA and graduated in 2014.

She will accompany the International Development Secretary, Priti Patel, to the yearly UNGA conference.

Selected alongside Minhaz Abedin, 18, from Leeds, she will be tasked with representing the views of young people in the UK at the world’s biggest and most prestigious decision making table.

Takyiwa with Peter Wilson, the Deputy Permanent Representative to the UK Mission to the UN

The assembly will be focussing on tackling extreme poverty, boosting female economic empowerment and strengthening global security, as well highlighting how the inclusion of young people in global decision processes can be a positive thing.

On her appointment, Takyiwa said: “I’m still surprised by the whole thing and it’s completely surreal to be here at the UN, mingling with world leaders, ministers, civil society and other incredible young delegates.

“I feel so proud and privileged to be able to represent the UK youth and speak about the issues important to us.”

Takyiwa has been heavily involved in development activism, having volunteered in Kenya with the International Citizens Service programme, which is supported by UK Aid.

She wants to make sure all young people from all backgrounds have the same opportunities available to them, and is a mentor for the International Volunteering Opportunities for All scheme.

For any students wanting to follow a similar path to Takyiwa, she said: “Anyone from UEA looking to go into development should start volunteering for a cause that’s important to them.

“Having the genuine passion helps you enjoy what you do! Also, join in with events and societies because you never know where your networks will take you, which is what happened to me.”

She has been tweeting throughout the assembly, and can be found on Twitter @Tatch09.