Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, participated in the inaugural Commonwealth Youth Consultative Dialogue, calling for a stronger emphasis on youth involvement in decision-making processes throughout the Commonwealth. Speaking on the first day of the event, he shared the stage with leaders from Namibia, Grenada, Seychelles, and the Commonwealth Secretariat.
Saukuru stressed the importance of young people as “leaders, innovators, and agents of change,” advocating for their voices to be central in shaping inclusive societies. He showcased Fiji’s dedication to empowering youth via two significant initiatives: the launch of the Fiji Youth Parliament and the revitalization of the National Youth Council, aimed at enhancing youth engagement at both the national and local levels.
The Commonwealth Youth Consultative Dialogue, organized under the theme “Reimagining Youth Leadership: Strengthening Systems for Sustainable Impact,” saw participation from over 250 youth leaders and policymakers from 56 Commonwealth countries, demonstrating a collective effort towards fostering sustainable youth leadership.
Similar dialogues from the Commonwealth Youth Forum held earlier in Apia, Samoa, reinforced the emphasis on youth collaboration and policy formulation to tackle pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. The Deputy Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Dr. Arjoon Sudhoo, commended the resilience and innovation showcased by youth post-COVID-19, highlighting the ongoing commitment to youth-led initiatives that are shaping the future.
This collaborative spirit is evident as Fiji continues to build momentum in youth development, aiming for a future where young voices are empowered and integrated into significant decision-making processes. The dialogues and initiatives signal a hopeful trend towards a more inclusive approach, ensuring that the aspirations and contributions of young people are recognized and elevated on a global scale.
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