We are at a place in our lives when we’re all feeling really hopeless for the future. This is a common feeling and not only amongst South Africans. From very young ages it has been engraved into our lives that we are the future yet the role we have been provided by the avaricious leaders of today to shape a tomorrow we will one one day be held liable to is minute and often inconsequential in altering the direction in which the world is currently heading in.
For political systems to be representative, all parts of society must be included. When young people are disenfranchised or disengaged from political processes, a significant portion of the population has little to no voice or influence in decisions that affect group members’ lives. Today’s Generation is “woke” and takes interest in issues that can be sometimes overlooked and have the potential to aid in a solution or at least ideas that can spark conversations however lack society’s backing.
World problems such as the abuse of resources, Wars and Military conflicts, climate change and poverty are ones that everyone is aware of ,but not enough people are taking proactive action against them. To further elaborate on the climate change issue, you need to understand that we will live in a period where climate change could influence everything we do if we don’t cater to it now. For instance, it could potentially affect our health, future careers, and the overall productivity of the world (which is very scary). Therefore, there’s a reason why people should listen to younger climate advocates, as their generation will be the most impacted by climate change.
The Youth has continuously proven themselves from the times of apartheid at the Soweto Youth Uprising to more recent times. Greta Thunberg, whose Fridays for Future strikes have mobilized millions of young people worldwide to demand urgent action on climate change, #EndSARS protests in Nigeria, where young Nigerians took to the streets and social media to call for the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and an end to police brutality and the March for Our Lives movement in the United States, spearheaded by survivors of the Parkland school shooting, has galvanized youth advocacy for gun control and safer schools. These movements exemplify the capacity of young people to lead, inspire, and effect meaningful social change
The phrase “back in my day” is one that we have heard far too often. The thing we need to understand is that we shouldn’t be sticking to the ideologies of the past but rather creating new ones to enable a better future. We’re repeatedly reminded that we have access to far superior resources technologically than the previous generations, some even calling today’s kids the ipad generation. This is true but technology can do much more than just provide a system of operations for social media and entertainment so we should be given the chance to use our experience and our modern resources in a globally beneficial manner. And we’ve proven this to be possible with examples of kids starting and operating successful businesses whether cyber or physical as young as 14 years of age.
The potential of young people is agile, nourishing and limitless. Young people have launched social entrepreneurships, led political protests, and changed the course of history time and again and yet our opinions and potential are resources that are often overlooked . the world needs your voice, your ideas, and your leadership now more than ever. We are not just the leaders of tomorrow; We are the change-makers of today. Our energy, creativity, and unwavering commitment to justice and sustainability are driving forces that can shape a better, more equitable world for all. Do not let anyone tell you that you are too young to make a difference. History is filled with examples of young people who have stood up, spoken out, and transformed societies.Our voices matter.Our actions matter. Believe in your power, embrace your potential, and continue to push for the changes you want to see. The future is in your hands, and together, we can create a world that listens, respects, and values the contributions of its youth. Stand strong, be courageous, and know that you have the power to make a lasting impact.
Thank you.