Where You Hear Our Voices: Empowering Youths, Shaping The Future
Where do we begin if we truly want to move a nation forward? What milestones signify that real progress has been made? And, perhaps most importantly, who will bear the weight of this journey?
Let’s talk about the people. Yes, the elders offer wisdom, and the future rests with the children. But we cannot ignore the strength and potential of the youth, who are the heartbeat of change. This urgency calls for us to listen to their voices.
On September 7, 2024, Nyumbamani, in collaboration with vibrant young minds, successfully hosted the first event in its Youth Engagement Series. This event, titled “Youth Voice In Nigeria: Fact or Myth?” was more than just a gathering; it was a powerful platform for Nigerian youths to express themselves, learn from one another, and engage in meaningful conversations that challenge the status quo.
The youth have always been a vital part of every society. They often make up a significant portion of the population, and their agility and energy position them as critical players in the educational system and workforce. This means their voices must be heard. After all, it’s their country and their world too!
The Youth Engagement Series is designed with a clear vision:
● To create a safe space for young people to express their views on current issues and share their personal experiences.
● To facilitate interaction and learning among young people in a respectful environment, ensuring that everyone leaves feeling heard and valued.
● To provide an opportunity for adults, including policymakers, to learn directly from the youth, fostering understanding and insight into the unique challenges they face.
● To offer a networking opportunity, allowing young people to connect with peers and build relationships that could shape their future.
Event Highlights
In case you missed it, let me walk you through some of the key moments, so you won’t feel left out.
A Panel of Passionate Youth Voices:
The event featured an insightful panel of young people and industry experts, each offering unique perspectives on what it means to be a youth in Nigeria today. From navigating the complexities of the job market to addressing societal expectations, the panelists opened up about their experiences, giving the audience a front-row seat into their world.
Interactive Q&A Session:
What made this event truly special was the interactive nature of the discussions. Participants were encouraged to send in their questions, and the panelists responded with thought-provoking and honest answers. This back-and-forth dialogue allowed for genuine exchanges of ideas, shedding light on issues like economic barriers, political representation, and pressures faced by Nigerian youth.
The Adept Moderator:
Guiding the conversation was a moderator who ensured that each panelist’s voice was heard, while also summarizing key points raised during the discussions. This added structure and clarity, making it easier for the audience to follow and reflect on the conversations.
Networking and Connections:
The event provided an opportunity for attendees to make new potential connections. It was a great opportunity for people who sought networking opportunities with youth groups, youth organizations, & fellow changemakers, to be a part of something that could help them achieve that goal.
Looking Ahead
If you’ve read this far, it’s because you’re interested in growth and in being a part of positive change.
Powered by Nyumbamani, and managed by fellow youths, this series aims to continue amplifying the voices of young people. Future events will feature more panels, a broader range of topics, and even greater opportunities for youth empowerment.
As we look forward to the next edition, it is clear that the Youth Engagement Series is just getting started. It is not only creating dialogue but actively fostering the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and changemakers in Nigeria.
Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t miss your chance to be a part of this transformative journey!