Singapore Tamil Youth Conference 2016 Manifesto NUSTLS Singapore Tamil Youth Conference 2016 Manif | Page 21

Issue 3: Process of Leadership Renewal 3. How can leadership renewal occur in the Tamil organisations? • The leadership renewal in the government can be emulated in the Tamil societies. The way the government functions for the transitioning of new ministers into the cabinet is something that most of us are aware of and hence, it will be relatable to us. • There is an age bar which one has to cross in order to be part of the executive committee (EXCO) in most Tamil community organisations. As such, some members have remained in their positions in the EXCO for 15 to 20 years. In some cases, chairman of the organisations are the founders themselves. • When there is no change in leadership positions, there is little opportunities for different perspectives to be involved when discussing problems faced by the Tamil community. • Youngsters need to be given the chance to rise up to these EXCO positions at a younger age. For Tamil community organisations to keep up with the progression of our society, they need new dynamics; and these new dynamics can develop when there are new leaders. • Tamil Youths are engaged in many Tamil related activities while schooling. However, upon graduation, there is a loss of touch with the Tamil community affairs. The community organisations can engage graduating Tamil youth leaders and ensure that they have a steady stream of capable, committed working class adults. • Leadership renewal can occur every three years to give enough time to implement any new changes or set direction. After service they can be part of advisory committee. By doing this, more young leaders have a chance to serve the Tamil community. • Before stepping down, the existing committee should come up with a proposal on what went wrong or what is the status of the current project before handing over the responsibilities to the next generation of committee members. • The next group of leaders knows what the possible problems they can face and how to solve if similar situation continues. They can also continue from where the previous group left off. Previous group (now in advisory community) can help them along the way if there are any problems. Issue 3: Process of Leadership Renewal PAGE 21