Closing Statement

How hollow stings the bitterness of departure, the time together passed, the moments shared now left to memory. We could not believe that we should have been so fortunate as to be selected, now we cannot believe it has ended. As our paths diverge, to lead their respective ways many will gaze-out and seek recall these special days - this we do with a new shade to our vision. This new tint to our sight is not an impediment, rather a facilitator offering a greater appreciation and understanding for that which passes as "everyday life". The change experienced is both as result and part of the unique and valued experience had. The cause of this change has not necessarily been the insights received into new and innovative technologies seen at the exposition, nor the speeches made, nor subjects discussed. Though valuable their contribution may be and the accumulative benefit is great, something far more fundamental can be said of that which occurred in Geneva. The real change and true wonder has come through the incredible people we have met.

In Geneva there came together a gathering of smart, energetic, open, eager and talented individuals - a week later a network of friends parted ways in the hope and promise that they would someday come together again. It was the people who made ITU World 2009 Youth Forum a uniquely unforgettable event and this was even recognized in the closing statement of Dr. Hamadoun Touré (our ITU "Father") in which he said: "In the end it is all about the people. We are working together to connect all the worlds people". If this is the start of it then well-done for it holds great promise.

So now to my closing statements and hopes. My hope is that this is but the beginning, may it never end, for what is truly great will last forever. Till next we meet my fellow ITU Youth Forum Alumni, do not let what we have taken from this great experience fade to memory. You have the ability to make it a living reality. They believe in us, now we must believe in ourselves.