I Want the World to Know that Young People are the Greatest Asset We Have Towards Making This World a Better Place
By Andrew, Member, International Youth Leadership Council, Advocates for Youth
I have a passion for advocating for the rights of young people. I think they have the power to unlock their potential - potential that that will help them to shape their own future.
However, some young people need someone to guide them, while others need someone to speak for them or help to speak. This is why I got involved in activism work - because I want to represent young people. I want the world to know that young people are the greatest asset we have towards making this world a better place. I want to see bright smiles on the faces of as many young as I possibly can. I believe that I can help those who are already smiling to continue smiling; and for those who haven't smiled in a while, I want to help them to smile again.
Youth activism can be very time-consuming. You've got to take the time to know your facts in order for you to lobby effectively; you have to take time to speak with the people you want to convince so they can believe or accept what you believe. It can be very challenging when some of your friends refuse to support you. "Stiff-necked" policymakers who refuse to hear you out also pose a challenge, but I guess it comes with being an advocate.
Activism is very moving. Hearing young people speak about their unfortunate experiences and what they'd really want to see changed brings tears of sadness, but seeing the difference you can make in their lives is rewarding. Just seeing the people I am advocating for happy makes me happy.
I'm a new member of the International Youth Leadership Council (one of only two Jamaicans on the Council). I'm planning a health expo on my university campus (University of the West Indies, Mona Campus (Kingston, Jamaica)) which will look at certain health issues affecting students and staff, especially HIV/AIDS. In addition, I plan to lobby the Ministers of Education and Youth and the Ministers of Health for comprehensive sexual education within Jamaican High Schools.
VIEW
STORIES FROM MORE YOUTH ACTIVISTS >>
ARE YOU A YOUTH ACTIVIST? CLICK HERE TO SHARE YOUR STORY >>
 Send this page to a friend >>
|
