Compiled by Nicola Jayasundera

COLLECTIVISATION OF YOUTH

Deenah Sangani hopes the nation’s societal divisions become less distinct

Q: What’s the good, the bad and the ugly in Sri Lanka?

A: Sri Lanka – aptly known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’ – is renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, cultural diversity and hospitable people. I consider these to be our greatest assets, which also attract attention from around the globe.

The negative aspect of the status quo is the intergenerational burdens forced on the nation’s youth, which holds us back from achieving our full potential due to closed mindedness and political discrepancies.

What’s ugly is the rampant corruption and bureaucracy, which causes our country’s innocent citizens to suffer.

Q: And what are the challenges facing the country today?

A: Due to the failures of our political leaders, political and economic instability has led to a reluctance among youth to fight for justice. This has created an environment where they’re seeking opportunities in greener pastures, resulting in a severe brain drain.

Q: Do you believe that Sri Lanka will be united one day – and how, if so?

A: To see a united Sri Lanka void of differences based on religion, race, caste and economic status, all Sri Lankans must work towards one cause with the sole motive of the nation’s welfare at heart.

My hope for the country is that we are able to create a non-judgemental environment where citizens can fulfil their aspirations. I wish that this Sri Lanka comes into existence soon, before our youth has to face irreversible consequences as a result of the turmoil we’re currently experiencing.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A: Over the next decade, I hope to excel in academics and advance in technology, furthering my endeavours of instigating change. I wish to pursue my ambition of becoming the first female pilot from my community and become an inspiration to future generations of girls to fight the shackles of cultural prejudice.

Q: And where do you see Sri Lanka in a decade from today?

A: I hope to see a united Sri Lanka with the collectivisation of its youth to prevent history from repeating itself, and create a society filled with dreams and aspirations that are pursued fearlessly.

We have forgotten the core values that all religions teach us – peace, harmony and selflessness. My vision for the country in the next decade is to see a more harmonious society that values the importance of religious tolerance.

Q: Who is responsible for climate change and global warming – and what must be done about it?

A: Climate change, as a result of global warming, has been a longstanding issue since the commencement of industrial development across the world.

I believe that every individual is responsible for the havoc being created in our world, as we simply watch each other pollute and cause harm to the environment.

We must begin by making more conscious choices. This change will only be possible if we begin the preservation process from within our immediate environment, starting with our households, schools, country and finally, the world.

Q: How do you view the growing importance of social media today?

A: Social media is a vital human need in the face of globalisation. It’s extremely important to ensure continuous connections across the globe to communicate issues that individuals from different demographics face.

Furthermore, it is essential for us to obtain news from around the world about e-commerce and the stock market. Therefore, we must educate the youth on how to use social media to its best sensibly, and reduce addiction and misuse.

Q: Where do you see the world in 10 years?

A: The world is filled with diverse individuals who have contrasting opinions and perspectives.

My hope for the world in the next 10 years is to see an environment where people are able to appreciate this diversity, and minimise the ramifications of extremism and bias – my dream is to witness a world free of bloodshed and grievances where people will be able to find common ground
to live peacefully.

In 10 years, our world will be completely controlled by AI, which means that we must begin taking steps to adapt to this new era.