"Young people should be at the forefront of global change and innovation. Empowered, they can be key agents for development and peace"

Young people are the torchbearers of tomorrow. They hold the potential to drive significant changes and innovations across the globe. This idea roots itself in the belief that the energy, creativity, and passion inherent to youth are crucial for addressing the world's toughest challenges. When you empower young people, you equip them to become the catalysts for development and peace, shaping a better and more equitable future.

To understand why this was said, let's take a look at the historical context. In many societies, young people have often been sidelined, their voices overlooked in favor of older, more "experienced" individuals. However, as the world became more interconnected and problems like climate change, inequality, and technological disruption emerged, it became clear that fresh perspectives were needed. Youth movements around the globe, such as the Arab Spring and Fridays for Future, highlighted the power of young people to mobilize, advocate, and bring about real change.

Imagine a teenager in a small town who starts a tech club with a few friends. They begin tinkering with coding and soon develop an app that helps farmers predict weather patterns to protect their crops. This teen, through passion and empowerment, has directly impacted their community, fostering development and potentially contributing to peace by alleviating economic stress. It's not just a hypothetical scenario—stories like this play out globally, with young innovators tackling everything from clean energy to social justice.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life or community? First off, don't underestimate the power of your ideas. Whether you're young or you work with young people, encourage exploration and experimentation. Reach out for resources, seek mentors, and don't be afraid to fail—sometimes the best lessons come from what didn’t work. If you're in a position of influence, create platforms for youth voices to be heard. This could be as simple as setting up a youth advisory council for your local government or school board.

Picture this: Emily, a high school student, feels strongly about the lack of mental health resources in her school. She decides to start a mental health awareness club. At first, it's just her and a couple of friends meeting after school. But word spreads, and soon dozens of students are attending. They organize workshops, bring in speakers, and eventually get the attention of the school administration. The administration allocates a budget for mental health resources and hires a full-time counselor. Emily's small initiative grows into a movement, all because she was empowered to act.

The takeaway here is simple: believe in the potential of young people. Whether it's starting a small community project or aiming for global change, the impact can be profound. By providing support, resources, and a platform, we can help unlock the potential within our youth. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the changemakers of today. Let's give them the tools and the trust to shape the world for the better.