Why Youth Activism Matters: A Young Leader’s Perspective
By: Gabby Zuccaro
It is often said that in order to discover the leaders of tomorrow, we must look to the young. However, tomorrow isn’t soon enough. Real change begins now, with youth as the change makers of today. Early involvement in activism is crucial to addressing the global crises shaping our world. From expanding access to education to supporting children facing poverty, a youth-to-youth approach allows young people to empower one another and make meaningful strides for humanity.
Growing up in a small Canadian town, I once believed I was too young to create meaningful change. Philanthropy and charity work seemed meant for those with more clout and influence. That perspective shifted when I discovered GO Campaign. Serving on the Youth Advisory Board has been one of the most enlightening, transformative experiences of my life. Speaking with and directly supporting grassroots leaders has ignited me with a sense of social justice, demonstrating how a young woman, such as myself, could drive real impact on a large scale. The Youth Advisory Board has made immense strides for communities around the world, from supporting girls’ education in Afghanistan to fundraising for a truck for SOM Chess Academy in Uganda. Through these experiences, I have grown to understand that meaningful change is not confined by the walls of age, but by the willingness and dedication each one of us has to act.
Students in Afghanistan receive school materials
Why is it important for young people to act? Put simply, exposing young people to philanthropy early is essential to developing a mindset fit for a future leader who can guide with empathy, responsibility, and purpose. It demonstrates the importance of advocating for change, encouraging young people to speak out against injustice and discover their voice. Young voices carry immense power, bringing new perspectives to long-standing social issues communities continue to face. When this is coupled with technology, the impacts are amplified bringing real issues to the forefront and spotlighting change in new, dynamic ways. That said, in today’s world, youth involvement is more important than ever as we work towards building a more inclusive and equitable world. There is a growing need for compassionate leadership when dealing with humanitarian issues, and perhaps the most powerful voices are the young ones prepared to step forward today.
SOM Chess Academy truck delivering food and resources to local communities
Change begins with a simple decision: the commitment to care enough to step forward. Now, more than ever, the world calls upon young people to be proactive, to speak out, step forward, and be the change we believe is possible. Oftentimes, the most extraordinary impact is made by those who refuse to believe their voices are too quiet to matter. GO is where I found my voice; transforming my compassion to action, and action into lasting impact.