Celebrating Youth Leadership: Empowering Change for Global Goals
Celebrating Youth Leadership: Empowering Change for Global Goals
On International Youth Day this year, the Office of the Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth is embarking on a transformative campaign to showcase the resilience, resourcefulness, and leadership of young people in creating a better world for all. Under the theme "Celebrating Ways #YouthLead as Agents of Change for the Global Goals. This unprecedented month-long takeover aims to highlight the multitude of ways youth contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) worldwide. As part of this theme, this article will focus on the challenges, recommendations, and solutions of youth in Iraq and beyond, while also exploring my achievements and contributions as one inspiring young individual.
Challenges Faced by Youth
Youth around the world encounter numerous challenges in their quest to create positive change. In Iraq, where the journey towards sustainable development faces unique obstacles, young people have had to overcome issues such as limited access to quality education, high unemployment rates, political instability, and limited resources for entrepreneurship and innovation. Additionally, they have had to contend with the aftermath of conflicts, which impact their opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Recommendations for Overcoming Challenges
To address these challenges, it is crucial for policymakers, stakeholders, and the international community to prioritize youth empowerment. Investing in quality education and vocational training programs can equip young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Promoting inclusive economic policies and fostering a conducive environment for entrepreneurship can help tackle unemployment and create job opportunities for young people.
Solutions: Youth as Agents of Change
Despite the obstacles they face, young people in Iraq and worldwide have demonstrated exceptional resourcefulness and resilience. I have been trying to be a visionary youth leader and a prime example of youth-led initiatives that contribute to a better world.
As the Founder and Managing Director of Wedo company, a prominent educational services and business consulting company in Iraq and beyond, I have been instrumental in providing comprehensive support to businesses, individuals, and organizations. Through Wedo, I have empowered local businesses and organizations with training, consultancy, education, mentorship, and strategic facilitation, contributing significantly to the economic growth and development of the region.
As an Advisor at Ye! Community - Iraq chapter of the International Trade Center further emphasizes my dedication to advocating for the needs of youth entrepreneurs. By collaborating with various stakeholders and sharing the benefits of the Ye! Community, I have supported capacity building, networking, and access to finance opportunities for young entrepreneurs in Iraq.
Despite supporting youth and community, my strategic leadership was evident in leading and establishing big business in Iraq, establishing partnerships, launching new products, and implementing growth strategies in digital transformation, banking, fintech and retail industry. These ventures have had a profound impact on the financial landscape in Iraq, promoting accessible and convenient digital payment solutions.
By investing in youth empowerment, providing access to quality education and economic opportunities, and recognizing and supporting youth-led initiatives, we can unlock their immense potential to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. My journey exemplifies the impact of youth leadership, and the significant contributions are a testament to the transformative power of young agents of change worldwide. As we celebrate International Youth Day, let us recognize and support the youth's invaluable efforts in creating a brighter and more sustainable future for all.
By Bayar Shahab, PhD.