By Shayle Havemann | Project leader
Introduction
“Today, there are 1.8 billion people between the ages of 10-24—they are the largest generation of youth in history. Close to 90 per cent of them live in developing countries, where they make up a large proportion of the population. Their numbers are expected to grow—between 2015 and 2030 alone, about 1.9 billion young people are projected to turn 15 years old. Connected to each other like never before, young people want to and already contribute to the resilience of their communities, proposing innovative solutions, driving social progress and inspiring political change. They are also agents of change, mobilizing to advance the Sustainable Development Goals to improve the lives of people and the health of the planet.” United Nations
Report
Roles for youth and the SDGs
Critical thinkers: Part of being young involves making sense of personal experiences and asking questions about the world around you. Youth have the capacity to identify and challenge existing power structures and barriers to change, and to expose contradictions and biases
Change-makers: Young people also have the power to act and mobilise others. Youth activism is on the rise the world over, bolstered by broader connectivity and access to social media.
Innovators: In addition to bringing fresh perspectives, young people often have direct knowledge of and insights into issues that are not accessible to adults. Youth best understand the problems they face and can offer new ideas and alternative solutions.
Communicators: Outside the international development sector, few people are aware that world leaders have come to a historic, far-reaching agreement to improve the lives of people and the planetby 2030. Young people can be partners in communicating the development agenda to their peers and communities at the local level, as well as across countries and regions.
Leaders: When young people are empowered with the knowledge of their rights and equipped with leadership skills, they can drive change in their communities and countries. Youth-led organisations and networks, in particular, should be supported and strengthened, because they contribute to the development of civic leadership skills among young people, especially marginalised youth.
We would like to celebrate some of our youth who received National Scholarships to assist them in capacity building so that they can take on various roles in facilitating the SDG’s
Amen South Africa Amen was a student at the Southern African Wildlife College. After listening to a talk about what GVI does and the NSP he applied. He is eager to complete his FGASA studies so he can pursue a career as a field guide.
Benjamin Mexico Mexican Marine Biologist, support his studies and practice as he wasn't a certified diver.
Khamsaeng Laos Novice Monk student for 5 years. After leaving the temple he expressed an interest in developing his skills in the field of English language and teaching.
Thank you for your support
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By Shayle Havemann | Project leader
By Natalie | Project Volunteer
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