I have been honoured to receive invitations to deliver keynote speeches at three events celebrating the upcoming International Youth Day on August 12, 2024. Despite the prestige and potential impact of these opportunities, I have chosen to decline them. My decision stems from several reasons that I believe are crucial for fostering genuine youth participation and leadership.
I Am Not Youth
First and foremost, I am not a young person. Recognising the significance of representation and authenticity in any forum, particularly one dedicated to the youth, is essential. The voices and perspectives shared at International Youth Day should be those of the youth, not those of individuals who, like myself, have moved beyond that stage of life.
Young People Have Agency and a Voice
In principle, I firmly believe that those who are not youth should refrain from speaking at International Youth Day events. Young people have consistently demonstrated their capability, agency, and voice. They are not mere recipients of wisdom from older generations but are active contributors to society with valuable insights and experiences. Given that they constitute the majority population in many regions, including Kenya, it is imperative that we listen to them, especially at events that are meant to celebrate and highlight their contributions.
Young people today are more connected, informed, and engaged than ever before. They have access to a wealth of information and are adept at using technology and social media to mobilise, advocate, and bring about change. This has been evident in various movements across the globe where youth have led the charge on issues such as climate change, social justice, and political reform.
The Organisation of These Celebrations Is Problematic
There is a troubling trend in how International Youth Day celebrations are often organised. Too frequently, these events feature older individuals speaking on youth issues, often paying lip service rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue. This approach undermines the very essence of the occasion and diminishes the potential for real impact and change. The presence of older speakers can inadvertently stifle the authentic expression and participation of young people, relegating them to passive listeners rather than active participants.
In such events, it is not uncommon to hear such statements as “We need to give young people a voice in decision-making.” In my view, the way to do this is to have the day’s events managed and driven entirely by young people. The rest of us should sit in the audience and listen to what they have to say.
A Call for Genuine Youth Engagement
If we are to honour the spirit of International Youth Day truly, it is crucial to create spaces where young people can freely express their ideas, concerns, and solutions. This means stepping back and allowing them to lead the conversations, set the agendas, and shape the narratives. It is not enough to include young people in these events; we must prioritise their voices and experiences, ensuring they are heard and respected.
As an advocate for meaningful youth engagement, I urge organisers of International Youth Day events to reconsider the current formats and practices. Let us move away from tokenism and towards genuine inclusivity. By doing so, we can ensure that young people take their rightful place at the forefront of discussions that impact their lives and futures.