I Believe in Youth

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I Believe in Youth

I am a firm believer in the power of youth. Since I facilitated my first youth workshop in 1997, I have been an advocate for youth empowerment, routinely showing young people, youth workers, educators, administrators, politicians and parents the power, purpose and possibilities of youth.

Young people bring some particularly important powers to the table. They include:

Purpose—Because of their abilities developed in their lives, youth have a sense of purpose in their learning and living. Through youth empowerment activities, we can help them focus and purposeful learners by partnering with adults. When youth go a step further and take action to change the world, they become even more purposeful! Building their knowledge, skills and abilities and applying them through social change encourages youth to stay driven and inspired to lead throughout society.
Passion—Youth might not come into a life with the skills or abilities they need to be leaders, and sometimes they don’t have the interest, either. However, after becoming empowered and applying their learning through action, youth develop passion and motivation and the drive needed to be leaders. This passion can take them far in school, at home and throughout their lives!
Possibilities—The possibilities of youth are limitless. Whether they’re doing personal work, advancing to powerful action, or taking it to the next level, there are many ways that youth can improve our world. Some youth become powerful advocates for social change who lobby legislatures, present at conferences and represent youth voice. Others become highly proficient in changing the world, and still others teach their peers with voraciousness and vigor. There are so many possibilities!
Practicality—The practical, actual difference youth make everyday create powerful change in their own lives, throughout their communities, and around the world. Young people who work to change the world can take powerful career steps because of the fires that were sparked when they were youth. The practical effects of young people taking action include saving money, increasing the efficiency of youth programs and schools, and improving the climate and outcomes of communities. Such practicality can make youth essential for social change around the world.

These are just a few of the reasons why I believe in youth! There are so many others that matter too, like creativity, digital powers, and more.

Why do YOU believe in youth?!?