Africa awaits Boyce

By Pamela Glason Thornton
City Editor
Columbus Post

Columbus City Councilperson Kevin Boyce

City Council President Pro Tem Kevin Boyce has been selected to expand relationships worldwide. In July, Boyce will be part of a seven-member political delegation to South Africa.
The American Council of Young Political Leaders (ACYPL) two-week exchange program will meet and interact with South African political officials. The delegation will obtain a unique view of the world's culture and become more familiar with other U.S. politicians and the people of South Africa by being there.
"The delegation will enter knowing nothing and experience the political structure, society and the culture. They will expand upon the interaction," said Michael Garretson of ACYPL.
ACYPL is an exchange program based in Washington, D.C. The program is designed to develop participants' interest in conducting global politics and establishing international relationships.
Members of the delegation will be involved with governmental and cultural initiatives and developments - ideal settings for meaningful exchange between the two countries.
"I want to see the differences that exist between their local governments and our local government, and see what kind of similarities we have when it comes to running a city," said Boyce.
He expressed that he is also interested in issues that directly affect the people of the cities, including neighborhoods, foreclosures and schools.
"Kevin really wants to help people. He really takes a lot to heart and wants to be there for the youth," said Crystal.
"The trip is designed to be a period spent intensely working on an outlined agenda. Everything will be a tour. I am looking forward to it," said Boyce.
"It is a good opportunity for persons who have experience and interest in politics," said Ohio Senator Ray Miller, an ACYPL alumni who nominated Boyce for the delegation.
Miller stresses the impact that going abroad will have on Boyce, a budding politician.
"As a member of the delegation, Boyce will get a better understanding of world events," said Senator Miller.
"Ray Miller mentored me over the years and it has shaped who I am. It is an honor that he would think that I am worthy," said Boyce.
His concern for children goes beyond state or national borders. "Kevin Jr., our nine-year-old, says he wants to be a teacher ... or a politician," noted Crystal.
Locally, Boyce spearheaded the establishment of Columbus' Youth Commission, which allows young people to share ideas about issues with the city's Mayor.
"It's going to be really different for the boys with their father not here by their side. Personally, I am jealous because he is going to so many areas in Africa," said Crystal Boyce.
The trip to South Africa will separate the couple for the first time since they got married.
Currently Council President Pro Tem, Boyce has served in positions with the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus and the Ohio House of Representatives.
A member of the Finance and Zoning committees of city council, Boyce emphasized that his interest in conducting politics go beyond the city's borders. "Yes, I would have an interest in that (international service) some day. I have never been abroad. This would be my very first experience," said Boyce who also admitted that he and his wife, Crystal, met through political service.
In Columbus, the parents are role models and provide the children with early examples of establishing solid personal relationships through community service and family life.
Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman has expressed support for his councilperson as he heads overseas next month. "We at the City of Columbus are excited about Boyce's participation. The Mayor looks forward to hearing about it when he returns," said City of Columbus spokesperson Dan Williamson in Mayor Coleman's absence.
"We don't have a sister city in Africa but The City of Columbus ought to take this opportunity to start up a relationship with South Africa, to connect our city and encourage them," said Boyce, who admits that he looks forward to learning even more about the African nation.
Former Toledo Mayor Jack Ford, who was Boyce's college professor, was his first political influence.
Acknowledging that Americans' ancestors came from the shores of South Africa, Boyce realizes that his destination point is our ancestor's country of origination.
"The welcome that you receive from our African brothers and sisters when they say 'Welcome Home' and embrace you, that is something you never forget," said Senator Miller about his travel experiences in the Motherland, Africa.
"I am very proud of my husband and everything that he has accomplished," said Crystal Boyce.
ACYPL was designed to reinforce two-way international political activity.
The three Democrat and three Republican delegates will meet ACYPL Chief Executive Officer Linda Rotunno, the group's designated escort, prior to leaving for South Africa.
A program for young politicians founded in 1966, ACYPL is designed to "prepare people as they rise in responsibility."
Next year, as a result of council participation, a South African delegation is scheduled to venture to the United States.
"We will welcome the delegation to the U.S. Alumni are invited to meet with inbound delegations and to attend briefings on U.S. government and politics," said Garretson.
For more information on ACYPL, visit http://www.acypl.org.

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