US envoy leaves creative sector with void
During his two years in Malawi, it was not uncommon to see then United States Ambassador David Young hang out with local artists or attend art festivals.
Yet it was peculiar for a person of his standing to mingle freely with ordinary people. Ambassador Young embraced everything Malawian, but even more so was his passion for local art.
He established a strong and close working relationship with the creatives. The envoy collaborated with a number of them on several projects, facilitated academic opportunities for some in his native country as well as cultural exchange programmes.
On Monday, the US Embassy announced that he is retiring after 34 years of public service.
In a brief statement Young said: “I am proud of our work together to save and change lives for good and I know the US-Malawi partnership will continue to endure. America ndi Malawi ndipachibale.”
News of his retirement has left many creatives disappointed.
Comedian and content creator Tannah Mr Broken English said it is sad to bid farewell to an amazing person who was passionate about promoting Malawian art and the welfare of Malawians at large.
“I learned a lot from him and above all he taught me to look at the gift that I have as a treasure that I can transform and leave an impact on other lives,” he said in an interview yesterday from his new base in the US.
Tannah worked with Ambassador Young on several initiatives, including the Cyclone Freddy intervention, Moto Malawi and US Pachibale.
Hip-hop artist Suffix, who worked with the veteran diplomat on his two Christmas jingle projects, described Young as a man of integrity, easy to work with, calm and friendly. H also singled out his impressive work ethic.
Suffix said: “I still don’t understand how he was balancing work and his extra-curricular engagements. His passion provided valuable opportunities for Malawian artists to showcase their talent and gain exposure.”
Actress Joyce Mhango-Chavula said much as it is sad that Young is leaving, he will leave a happy person because of the contribution he made to the creative sector.
“We will remember him as the ever welcoming ambassador who was down to earth and interacted with people regardless of their status and class. I wish him all the best and hopefully he will continue supporting Malawi from a distance,” she said.
The acting caretaker Amy Diaz in an e-mailed interview yesterday said his team remains committed to supporting arts and continue providing opportunities for young Malawian creatives through their programmes.
