There’s nothing the youth cannot do. Teens are formidable and unstoppable. They are at the forefront of change, working harder than ever to build a more responsible and generous society that lives harmoniously together. That is recognised as power of youth.
International Youth Day, celebrated on 12 August, the world over is a testimony to the power of youth. It is a day that celebrates the contribution of young women and men to the world community; it is an opportunity to raise awareness about struggles faced by the youth.
As a teen, it’s easy for you to think that you do not have the capacity to change what you do not approve of on our planet, or the resources required to alter things for the better. However, teens have been proving, time and time again, that they have the power to make a real difference. Here’s how you can use the power of youth too…
Raise awareness
Find a cause you are passionate about. Be it the environment, bullying, education for all or ending hunger and poverty, your cause deserves to be heard. Educate yourself, learn about what is being done to fix the problem and support organisations that are doing good work on the field. Then, pick up your phone, and instead of posting that hilarious meme, or sending that text forward, spread the message about your cause. You may feel like your voice is inconsequential in the larger scheme of things, but remember, Greta Thunberg, a 16-year-old environmental activist, has been at the forefront demanding action on climate change and has been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize! That is power of youth.
Care packages for the needy
Team up with friends in your neighbourhood to collate care packages for the less fortunate. Ask your family and neighbours to fill boxes with tooth brushes, soap and shampoos, canned food, towels, toys, clothing and a blanket and distribute them among those in need. If you have construction workers toiling in the heat in your locality, bring them some homemade lemonade, chilled water and snacks to help them freshen up.
Stand up for what is right
The Never Again MSD movement that demands tighter regulations to prevent gun violence in the USA is a great example of the power of youth (teens) to stand up for what is right. You can too, even if not at such a large scale. Bring bullying in school to the notice of parents and officials. Say something when you see behaviour that bothers you, even if you are afraid.
Plant a community garden
How great would it be to revive the planet to its green state? You can do your bit by mobilising your community to plant a community garden. Plant vegetable and fruit trees – once grown, they will bear fruit and food for all to enjoy. Apart from nurturing the planet, the garden will also be a lovely place for people to relax, for kids to play and families to hang out.
Bake sales and fundraisers for charity
Giving to charity is a truly rewarding experience. Get together with friends and whip up cupcakes and cookies for a mini charity bake sale in your neighbourhood. You can collaborate with a local thrift store to organise a used clothing or second-hand household items sale, with a portion of the proceeds going to charity.
Surprise someone
While so many of these steps may seem like large undertakings, a simple way to make a difference is by surprising someone. Cook breakfast and bring it to your parents in bed. Visit your grandma when she isn’t expecting you and bring a board game for a fun afternoon. Ask your siblings to join you in cleaning the home and backyard so that your parents may return to a spic and span household.
Pay it forward
Maybe you had a senior student tutoring you while you were younger. Or maybe an older cousin gave you a box-full of gently used toys to play with. Maybe a classmate started the first conversation with you when you were shy. It’s time to pay it forward. If there is a subject you are particularly good at, offer to tutor younger kids. Be the first to reach out to school mates who are lonely.