Rise of a future leader

Cool Lifestyle caught up with the teenager in the resort town of Kariba during a four-day long workshop hosted by Youth Empowerment and Transformation Trust. The workshop which saw youths from different countries including Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, South Africa and Zimbabwe participating on issues on politics and elections.

Alengot who spoke firmly about her country, position and achievements during the workshop, said if given a chance, children and youths play a pivotal role in the development of a country.

However, Alengot Proscovia Oromait (APO) opened up about her political views and lifestyle. Below are excerpts from the interview with Cool Lifestyle Reporter, Swagga T (ST).
ST: How are you honourable? Briefly tell us about yourself?

APO: Greetings to all young people across Africa. I was born on July 11, 1991 in USUK, Uganda from a family of three boys and five girls. I am the second born and my mother is a farmer and businesswoman. My father is late. I attended Kigulu Girls Primary before completing my higher education (senior 5 equivalent to sixth form) last year at St Mathias Kalemba. I am studying Mass Communication in Journalism and Law Developmental Administration courses both at Uganda Christian University.

I am a strong and vibrant young woman, fighting for justice, health, education and human rights. As a young lady and Member of Parliament, I have a vision and believe if given a chance young people can run the nation. My persuasion can build up a nation.

ST: Interesting, so when and how did you get into politics?
APO: I was motivated by my late father. I used to go with him during his rallies, helping him with campaigns. During the time of his death he was contesting for USUK constituency as Member of Parliament.
Together we used to talk to the youths about peace, harmony, human rights and the importance of elections among other things. I could say I won the hearts of many through my understanding of youths because I am also a youth. My father died on July 21, 2011 and I was elected to represent my constituency. I said to myself I could do it.

ST: Are there any challenges so far since you got elected?
APO: Politics is not a dirty game, it’s dirty people who makes it dirty and I love it. My biggest challenge so far was appreciation. People love money and if there is no money you lose, but my strategy was to give people resources.

Many people in my community doubted me at first that I could represent them. Am I strong to withstand the great pressure in parliament? Do I know what they want? I am glad that all these questions were answered and we moved forward. During parliament seating some MPs are friendly and others are pompous.
However, you have to know your purpose.

ST: What are some of the things you have contributed in your constituency?
APO: Through my networking and links I have managed to repair boreholes, bought medical equipment and drugs for clinics and hospitals and distributed books in different schools. To me it was the greatest achievement because all these were lacking. I am paying school fees for 38 children.

ST: Tell us your other side apart of being an MP?
APO: Apart from politics I want to be an international journalist. I am a sociable person just like your girl next door. I haven’t changed much. I love watching movies. I am adventurous and next month I have been invited to United States to talk to the youths and I am not sure yet that am I meeting Obama the president (laughs). I dress according to the occasion, but I love suit pads and skirts.

Matooke is my favourite food served with pasted fish. I have a private Facebook account with a different name to avoid hackers and impostors.
ST: What are your views on teen dating?
APO: I am still single, but not searching. I want to focus on my studies and do a lot more for my constituency. Teen dating has always been there but it’s matter of being principled.

ST: Who is your role model?
APO: My mother is a woman of valour. My sister is like my personal assistant she does all the work, bookings and meetings. My father was a warrior, he taught me integrity. My family, the boys are my little soldiers, I love them most as they stand by me all the time.
ST: Any advice to the youths?

APO: Always fight for what you want to be. We are already the leaders of today and legends of tomorrow, the time is now. Dream big and achieve big.
ST: Thank you, Lady MP
APO: Most welcome Swagmaster.