Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru recently participated in the inaugural Commonwealth Youth Consultative Dialogue, where he urged nations to give greater importance to youth involvement in decision-making across the Commonwealth. Speaking alongside leaders from various countries including Namibia, Grenada, and Seychelles, Saukuru emphasized the role of young people as “leaders, innovators, and agents of change,” advocating for their inclusion in building inclusive and progressive societies.
Fiji’s dedication to empowering the youth was highlighted through two significant initiatives: the establishment of the Fiji Youth Parliament and the revitalization of the National Youth Council. These initiatives aim to enhance youth engagement at both national and local levels, ensuring their voices are heard in critical conversations and decisions that shape their futures.
The dialogue, themed “Reimagining Youth Leadership: Strengthening Systems for Sustainable Impact,” convened over 250 youth leaders and policymakers from 56 Commonwealth nations. This gathering is seen as a crucial step towards creating a unified vision for sustainable youth leadership across member states.
Similar events, such as the Commonwealth Youth Forum held recently in Apia, Samoa, have also reinforced the commitment of youth leaders to collaborate in formulating policies that address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. During that forum, Deputy Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Dr. Arjoon Sudhoo, commended the young people for their impactful initiatives and their resilience in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, further underscoring the transformative potential of youth leadership.
As Fiji moves forward with its commitment to youth empowerment, these initiatives represent a hopeful agenda that highlights the importance of young voices in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future across the Pacific region.
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