Funky Dragon held its 2008 AGM in Cardiff on 17th – 19th July 2008 and it was a fun packed and informative few days.
The place of residence this year was UWIC, Cyncoed. Everybody arrived on Thursday morning and registered, making sure to pick up all their freebies. After filling our stomachs with a yummy lunch the planning group welcomed everyone and gave an introduction to Funky Dragon and the AGM event in the lecture theatre. We were visited by the Electoral Reform Society and Cyfanfyd who ran informative workshops. Following an open discussion on the new themes for this year there was a choice of evening entertainment.
An early start as we headed off to the Assembly for the business part of the AGM. We welcomed Deputy Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones to open the day in the Milling area of Ty Hywel. Following his speech we headed off into workshops to learn about the individual portfolios within the Welsh Assembly from the Co-chairs. After a short break the Co-chairs welcomed the Ministers and officials from the portfolios into their workshops and everyone was given the chance to discuss issues that they felt are important. The open discussions went fantastically and the dedication and enthusiasm from the young people was certainly evident. After a busy morning we were given a chance to sample the delicious mini burgers and sandwiches at the buffet.
The afternoon saw the official AGM business in the Chambre Hywel, chaired excellently by Cerys Jenkins from Neath Port Talbot Youth Council. There were updates on last years themes: Julie Morgan MP gave a speech on Votes@16 and James Fletcher, one of the Climate Change Champions spoke about the work he has been doing and what everyone can do to help the Environment. Ben Sawyers announced this years themes to be ‘Environment’ and ‘Transport’. Following speeches and a vote the new Management Committee was announced. The AGM was brought to a close by Mo Sykes, Chair of the Management Committee.
After a very work heavy day, everyone was invited to put on their glad-rags as we headed to the Millennium Stadium for the annual awards dinner. Every year, Grand Council members who have completed their two year term are awarded a handmade Grogg. Following the awards, we let our hair down on the dance floor.
Already it’s Saturday, where did the time go? Another successful AGM, we would like to thank everyone for all their hard work and contributions.