Cylcia Manwa is an elected politician in Thurrock, Essex, where she represents her local ward of Tilbury. Elected to office at the age of just 19, she is now one of the youngest elected politicians in the United Kingdom. She also holds Politics and International Relations degree from the London School of Economics. Cylcia is passionate about championing the voices of marginalised communities, especially the voices of young people, ethnic minorities, and women. She has a particular passion in advocating for the rights of women and girls. The politician has been recognised by His Majesty as a young Kenyan British woman making a positive impact on society, and was hosted at a private reception in Buckingham Palace, in celebration of notable Kenyan citizens in the United Kingdom. Cylcia has also addressed Kenyan students at the Kenyan Embassy, upon invitation by the Kenyan Ambassador to the UK. As a passionate advocate for broader representation within politics, she regularly visits schools, community groups and faith centres in order to share her story and talk about the importance of young people, women and ethnic minorities in politics.
Cylcia speaks exclusively to Sunday Oyinloye, Publisher Green Savannah Diplomatic Cable on why she went into politics early in life and her experience
Excerpts:
You went into active politics as a teenager, what informs your action?
I was motivated from a young age to want to do something in my local community, since young people are typically not represented at both the local and national levels of government, and this is a systemic issue seen worldwide. I wanted to be part of the change
What was your parents’ reaction when you told them about your mission?
They were slightly shocked but very supportive. They had an idea for me to go into sciences and maybe become a doctor, so my decision to take on a political career obviously diverted from that path. Nevertheless, they supported me 100 percent, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
How difficult or otherwise is it to combine politics with education?
It was definitely challenging balancing being a full time student at the London School of Economics with being an elected councilor, but I couldn’t imagine my journey going any other way. I like staying busy and the experience definitely kept me on my toes
Was there any unpleasant experience when you were campaigning?
Yes, at times I did face some disparaging remarks about my candidacy, mainly surrounding my young age that was the main argument against me. But, I have a great support network around me, and I do think that those sorts of ignorant comments are why we need more young people in positions of power. Age is not directly correlated to competency
What remarkable things have you done since you were elected?
I have been invited to speak at international conferences, last year I was in Samoa and spoke at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting alongside Baroness Patricia Scotland QC, which was an absolute honour. I was also invited by His Majesty to Buckingham Palace for a private reception celebrating Kenyan Britons and their contributions, meeting him was very surreal
How far do you think you can go in UK’s politics?
As far as I set my mind to, hopefully
Let’s know your thoughts about the way politics is being played in Africa?
From my observations and the studies I have done at university, I know African politics is played very differently, and I’m not sure if I would’ve been able to have achieved what I have achieved here over there. Generally speaking, money is a big factor in candidacy, to be able to finance a campaign, most of which seems to be self-funded as opposed to from the party, if the person belongs to any party at all. I think that is a big barrier for a lot of people in Africa who would have otherwise loved to stand and represent their community, which is very unfortunate.
Many Africa youths will read this interview, what is your message to them?
That if you set your minds to something, there is nothing you cannot achieve. You may face challenges and naysayers as you go along, but if you have a big dream or aspiration, do not let anything or anyone dim your light. We are the future and deserve to be represented
What are you doing to give back to your root, Kenya?
I visit Kenya regularly to see my family; I particularly enjoy spending time with my grandmother. She is one of my biggest inspirations. I also visited schools in Kenya and recently gave a guest lecture at Strathmore University, which was a surreal experience, especially considering I was also a student at the time also
Tell us your big dream?
My big dream is to try and help as many people as possible, to be a voice for those who cannot advocate for themselves, and make a positive contribution to our society.
What is the soft side of Cylcia ?
When I’m not working, my favourite way to spend time is with my family and close friends. I’m also quite an emotive person, and I do enjoy a good romantic comedy movie
