I was so nervous at the initial meeting with the AGF Secretariat...but there was no need. I had been worried because I had no idea what to expect and everyone else seemed to be making a huge deal out of it. I had only been nominated on the Thursday (four days before) and I was terrified I would make a colossal mistake. Besides, my personal and work life was especially hectic....and it was my last physical working day. I literally left my goodbye party early to rush upstairs to the office of the Secretary General's Climate Change Support Team.
You see, I had spontaneously decided to move back to Ireland on Thursday 4th November...and had given myself until the 9th of November to do so. A major decision as I love, love LOVE my current life in NYC. However, logically, the move offers me longer term prospects and it isn't financially viable to return to NYC for three weeks. Therefore, I changed my ticket...on the 5th of November after discussing the option of working online with my current employer who was very positive and supported my decision. Since everything always happens at once, I also found out that I had been nominated to represent YOUNGO at a Climate Finance CSO/ NGO meeting with the AGF Secretariat after the official release of their report by the Secretary General. Unsurprisingly, this involved reading the 80 page report, contacting the youth constituency (online) and collecting / compiling talking points that inadequately represented more than just my questions / comments (you can see them all on my notes blog).
The meeting went well. I was early, I was prepared, and the discussion flowed. We finished earlier than I expected and I went back to the office to another round of goodbyes with anyone who was working late. It was surreal to be leaving. I will miss all the amazing people I have had the honor to work with and I hope to continue to actively advocate for change. My year in NYC has changed me. I know see possibilities rather than barriers. I now trust in my capacity. I believe that I can make it anywhere and I strive to discover, explore and learn...It is great understanding that I can achieve whatever I set my mind to. That I can surpass obstacles and make my own opportunities....So, my NYC 2010 has been cut short. But the 11 months have really pushed me into realising my potential. I made some great friends, learnt how to network and how to compete professionally. I think that this has been my year.
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