National youth weekend - be there

It’s not every day you get the chance to have your say about the union at an all expenses paid weekend. Well that is what’s on offer to young members aged 26 or below at this year’s national youth weekend to be held in Warrington, Cheshire, on October 1&2.

The two-day event is open to young members, activists or reps from across the union’s seven divisions from all companies and from all sectors.

It provides the ideal opportunity, in a relaxed informal setting, for members to discuss what the union is doing for them and how they can get more involved.

It’s a lively weekend with guest speakers, workshops, question and answer sessions and still leaves plenty of time to socialise beyond the venue - the national training centre.

For Krupa Raithatha, 25, it has been a revelation. “I’ve represented the union at conferences in the UK and Europe,” she said. “Last year I joined a delegation of young trade unionists to Colombia in South America. What a fantastic experience that was.

“Being involved with Usdaw has not only opened many doors it’s opened my eyes to the world.”

Over the years the weekend has been the launch pad for many members to become more active in the union with some going on to full-time positions within Usdaw.

Working weekend can open doors

Two of last year’s weekenders are now well into their six month secondment with the union’s Organising Academy.

Co-op worker Sarah France, 23, and Excel’s Mark Thomas, 27, are the youngest ever recruits to the Academy since it began. Both have a history of involvement in the union and are looking to broaden their knowledge and experience of all things Usdaw.

What you said about the weekend . . .

‘We touched on really topical subjects. We all had an opinion which usually spilled over into the bar.’ – Julie Brown

‘I’ve had a great time at the last two events and made some good friends. Get your name down now.’ – Carrie Ford

‘The weekend is relaxed, informative and the guest speakers were excellent. Give it a try.’ – Gareth Saj

‘It was great. It helped to build my confidence and I became more active in the union as a result.’ – Michael Hill

• Contact your local Usdaw office for more details.

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