Compelling stories from the majority of Ugandan youth attest to issues of unemployment, poor leadership experiences, limited representation in decision-making processes, and lack of basic essential services like medication among many aspects that have increasingly put a hold on the development of young people.
In November, Open Space Center in partnership with the US Mission in Uganda brought together over 50 young students with a background of leadership and debate for the Youth Debate Support program (YDS) an initiative focused on providing a safe space for youth to discover themselves, understand their influence in society, their contribution to the country’s governance.
During the two-day camp, participants were graced with a panel discussion that included team leaders Open Space Wakibu Bunnya, Jamila Mayanja of Smart girls Uganda, and Ahmed Hadji co-founder of African Youth Development Link all of who are alumni of the American
opportunities like YALI & Mandela Washington fellowships.
During the discussions, Wakibu shared his background and how it contributed to his urge to
apply for some of the opportunities presented by the Americans, like the Mandela Washington fellowship to better his activism for change. As he addressed the young enthusiast he echoed that most of the youth stop in the middle of their journeys of success because they have failed to master the art of consistency and persistence. Similarly, Jamilah added by encouraging the youth to use each opportunity availed to constructively strategies themselves and also manage passion with finances.
Young people are often blinded by the concept of connection forgetting their role therein. Ahmed Hadji an educationist tasked young enthusiasts to find what they are passionate about and move beyond ideation. He further echoed that the first steps are to always mentor oneself since the opportunity is given to those already doing something. He further concluded by informing them that greatness is never given, you earn it.