Young people from BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and Africa have been challenged to use their voices to demand action from the leaders.
The call was made by Acting KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomagugu Simelane, during her address at the BRICS Youth Summit, currently underway in Durban.
Simelane challenged young people to seize the moment and be part of the debates about their own future.
She said young people have a unique perspective to offer on the challenges and opportunities of our time, noting that they are the ones who will inherit the world tomorrow.
“It is said that we do not inherit the Earth, but we merely borrow it from future generations. This therefore places a major responsibility on us all, to rise to take our respective places in the sphere of infinite possibilities… but to do that, conscious of those who are yet to come and the world they’ll be borrowing from future generations,” Simelane said.
Simelane also urged the youth to use the summit to discuss, debate and share brilliant ideas for the better, safer, more prosperous, but “sustainable future of our country, our continent and the world.”
“Let us work together to build a BRICS that is inclusive, prosperous and sustainable. This is a timely and important topic, as we face the challenges of climate change, environmental degradation and inequality.
“You are the ones who will inherit this planet; and you are the ones who will have to live with the consequences of our actions. You have a responsibility that you will lend those who will come after you, a planet that is not only viable, but also conducive to further growth and development,” the Acting Premier said.
She added that the KwaZulu-Natal Government believes in the importance of creating a culture that values the contributions of young people, by listening to their ideas, respecting their opinions and giving them the opportunity to lead.
“We certainly believe that when young people are empowered, they can make a real difference in the world. They can help to solve problems, create change, and build a better future for everyone.”
Held from 18-20 July 2023, the BRICS Youth Summit aims to bring together youth participants and afford them an opportunity to share ideas and work on a concrete Action Plan for co-operation in economic, humanitarian, mass media and the science sphere.
The summit will focus on discussions that aim to encourage young leaders amongst BRICS nations to actively participate in addressing the most significant global challenges, as well as economic and social issues and contribute to the developmental agenda.
It also aims to establish constructive engagements on issues relating to youth empowerment, the advancement of youth development and in creating a conducive environment where youth will devise a path to a brighter and better future. – SAnews.gov.za
