— A Special International Youth Day Message from Dr. Martins Kedienhon
As the world marks International Youth Day, I am reminded of a song many of us sang as children:
“Parents, listen to your children; we are the leaders of tomorrow. Try to pay our school fees and give us the best education.”
Calling young people “the future” is not just a compliment—it’s a responsibility. It means the choices, skills, and values we build today will shape the prosperity, peace, and stability of our society tomorrow.
Young people hold incredible power, and here’s why we must never relent:
1. Population Strength
In many nations, youths make up a significant part of the population. This means we are the backbone of the workforce, the majority in the voting booth, and the heartbeat of innovation. When we unite for a common purpose, we can reshape society.
2. Energy & Creativity
Our energy, curiosity, and openness to new ideas make us natural drivers of change. This is the best time to make an impact—when we have the time, passion, and fresh ideas to build something lasting.
3. Adaptability to Change
We are quick to embrace social, technological, and cultural shifts—an essential skill in today’s fast-changing world.
4. Leaders in the Making
Today’s youths are tomorrow’s policymakers, entrepreneurs, educators, and innovators. Education—whether formal or informal—is never a scam; it is a tool that shapes the future.
5. Long-term Stakeholders
We will live with the consequences of today’s policies for decades to come. That’s why youths must have a seat at the decision-making table, not just as spectators but as active contributors.
Today, I call on young people everywhere—especially my fellow Deltans—to harness your strengths, rise with purpose, and take bold steps toward the change we desire.
To our leaders, I say: give the youth a chance. Let us contribute meaningfully to governance, innovation, and development. The future is not tomorrow—it is being built today, and we are ready to build it.
Dr. Martins Kedienhon
President, CODECSO
#CSO #DeltaCSO #CivicSpace #Leadership #Future