We are independent, resourceful, and self-sufficient; we value freedom and responsibility, and many of us show a casual disdain for authority; we adapt well to change and are more tolerant of different lifestyles; we are ambitious and eager to learn new skills. We are not a threat to anyone, though. We just want our space to be who we are.
So, as Parliament changes, as it adapts, let's make sure that we listen to the needs of the Generation X legislators.
In 2020 many, if not most, of the legislators in this House will not be here. The risk of institutional memory loss is real unless young legislators in this House are nurtured and given opportunities.
Similarly, it is reasonable to assume that many, if not most, of the legislators who will sit here then, in 2020, are not with us here today. They are out there, beyond these walls, in Diepsloot and Chatsworth and Atlantis. They have had plenty of time to look at the successes and failures of the past 17 years of democratic governance. They have new ideas, some crazy, some irresponsible, some credible and some downright awesome, but, whatever the case, they will fill many of these benches in 2020.
In closing, let me say that we, the young legislators, honour our elders. I think particularly today of the late Albertina Sisulu and her immense contribution to our land. As confident as I am that there is a new generation of political leaders waiting to take over the mantle of leadership, my question to us, the young legislators, the young leaders and youth in general is: Can we live up to the standards of the leadership of Mama Sisulu? [Applause.]