#YouthLead for the Future

As leaders from around the world gather for the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, one word is on everyone’s mind: Future. World leaders are responsible for acting and making a better future, but it is young people who will live with the successes or consequences of those actions.

We reached out to members of our Committee of African Youth Advisors (CAYA) to learn more about what a better world means to them and how world leaders can make a better future for everyone.

What does a better world mean?

What do world leaders need to do to achieve a better world?

Chadrack Mudikisi, DRC

What leaders must do to achieve a better world is to open new opportunities in all areas of life in order to release the potential that is in man.

They should strive to create a world without injustice, where everyone feels good and gives the best of themselves.

Deborah Simbeye, Malawi

All we need is collaboration and cooperation among leaders so that we will be able to address challenges as a team.

Emish Ondiek, Kenya

World leaders should focus more on the people’s and the environment’s needs. By doing so, both the health of the planet and the well-being of individuals will improve.

Matsepo ‘Dee’ Mphafi, Lesotho

World leaders are encouraged to empower the younger generation to effectively implement new technology and ideas. Young people know what will and will not work for them as young people as the receiver of services.

Mthobisi Simelane, Eswatini

World leaders have a crucial role in shaping a better world. They must prioritize sustainable development by investing in renewable energy, addressing climate change, and ensuring access to clean water and sanitation. They should also promote peace and security through diplomacy, conflict resolution, and disarmament. Human rights must be at the forefront of their agenda, protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, or religion.

Finally, world leaders must foster global cooperation to address shared challenges like poverty, inequality, and pandemics. By working together, we can create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world for all.

Why is it important for leaders to act now?

Chadrack Mudikisi, DRC

World leaders have the responsibility to try to change this world.

Deborah Simbeye, Malawi

It is important to avoid more distractions of things. If action is taken now, that means we will inspire hope and motivate others to act.

Emish Ondiek, Kenya

Time is something that won’t wait for us. If we don’t act wisely and promptly to benefit both people and the planet, we will continue to delay progress toward a better world.

Matsepo ‘Dee’ Mphafi, Lesotho

Leaders must act now because young people can lose interest in anything that doesn’t directly involve them. We have pushed for equality, but it hasn’t been effective. Therefore, we need equity, which gives everyone the chance to be included and treated fairly.

Mthobisi Simelane, Eswatini

The time to create a better world is now. Climate change is already having devastating effects on our planet, and the window for action is closing rapidly. Inequality and poverty continue to persist, perpetuating cycles of suffering. Pandemics and other global crises highlight the interconnectedness of our world and the need for urgent cooperation.

Delaying action will only exacerbate these challenges and make it more difficult to achieve a sustainable and equitable future. By taking decisive steps now, we can prevent further harm, build a more resilient world, and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.

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*Chadrack Mudikisi’s responses are translated from French to English

**Responses have been edited for clarity and content.