I spent last weekend in Edinburgh, invited by The Women of the World Society at the University of Edinburgh to speak on social activism and international development. The Politics Society had also got involved - so I was looking forward to the discussion broadening out to other topics.
The 14 hour coach ride - getting into the city at 7am on Saturday - was worth it. The majestic city looked wonderful - the weather was quite mild and the sun was shining. I made my way to my hotel, The Terrace Hotel on the Royal Terrace, which was only a short walk from the bus station. I picked it primarily because of its ideal location to the centre of Edinburgh and because when I phoned up, the owners sounded extremely warm and inviting. However, I was stunned by what awaited me - one of the prettiest family run hotels you will find (and inexpensive to boot). I was fed, left my luggage and walked around the city for a while (the service throughout was superb and I would recommend the hotel to anyone).
By the early afternoon, I headed to the Robert Adam designed Old College and was made to feel most welcome by the organising committee of the Women of the World Society. The turnout was great. As Scotland kicked off against South Africa in the rugby, I spoke at length on the set topics. The question and answer session was hugely enjoyable for me. The audience was well informed (there were more than a few political stars) and challenged me on one or two issues where my political beliefs differed to theirs - in particular, I am wary of positive discrimination in Westminster selections and prefer greater training and mentoring opportunities to certain disadvantaged groups. But I loved the debate we had on the subject. When you attend a political society event, you hope for debate where all views can be represented and ideas vigourously discussed.
Afterwards, we moved to a post-event drinks and reflections at Native State. It was fun and a bit more informal. The discussion included the European elections, Obama's victory, student exchanges and study visits (the US was the No. 1 destination) and juggling studying, working part-time and taking an active role in student societies.
I left Edinburgh on the Sunday morning coach. I wish I had had more time but I had full set of commitments on Monday. A big thanks has to go out to Sara Darcy of the Women of the World Society for making my trip up to Edinburgh so engaging and worthwhile. I always make every effort to support student societies and this was a lovely visit.
2 comments:
I am wary of positive discrimination in Westminster selections and prefer greater training and mentoring opportunities to certain disadvantaged groups.
I must agree.
I had wondered where the blog had gone. Welcome back.
Sorry Alfred. When you are doing 3 campaigning events a week on top of everything else, blogging gets difficult! I missed the blog myself so will try harder
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