By Kamilah Gumbs, President – Sint Maarten Youth Parliament
It is that time again, where early morning risings become a part of our daily routine and the roaring noises of the school buses fill the air. This message is not to scare you back to school, but an opportunity for all of us to take a good look around us. It is an opportunity to observe what’s happening around us and analyze the situations so we can take the lead in making a change.
The theme of this year’s International Youth Day is ‘Youth Leading Sustainability.’ What is sustainability? According to dictionary.com it is ‘the ability to be sustained, supported, upheld or confirmed.’ We must each ask ourselves how we can contribute to the sustainability of our country.
Each citizen, regardless of age or gender, has an essential role to play in nation building. If we are to build a strong, viable, our people must be skilled and knowledgeable to take up key positions in leadership. Our young people must therefore be prepared and equipped to lead. This preparation extends beyond the classroom to the community, and begins with a personal commitment to excellence.
To be able to lead sustainability, I encourage you to do these three things this school year.
- Stay Focused. There are many things that can distract you from achieving your goals. Try your best to pay attention in class, so you can learn, develop and execute properly.
- Always be Yourself. All leaders are not the same. Good leaders are authentic; true to themselves. The world thrives on differences and so will our country. Use your unique abilities and gifts to lead. A leader worth following brings something of value to the table.
- Choose Wisely. It is election time again (yay). It is time for us as young people to decide on our future sustainability. Do your research. Ask pertinent questions. Analyze the past and current situations. Do not vote for/support a particular party or candidate because your mother, uncle, sister boyfriend is running. Make your choice on what is right for you and our country Sint Maarten.
In conclusion, we all have a purpose. We were not put on this earth to be couch potatoes. Take the initiative as young people of Sint Maarten to make appositive change for our future, and other generations to come.
Happy International Youth Day, and have a safe, successful school year 2016/2017.