Youth for re-branding of Africa
Submitted by Jacky on Thu, 06/05/2008 - 10:35.
As a young African woman, seeing our leaders in dismay saddens me, and this drives me to realize that young people have a massive role to play in the re-branding of our continent.
I brainstormed with my peers on the meaning of the word ‘branding’. Most commonly, it is defined as something new that needs an identity. Re-branding comes into play when something has lost its meaning, and its current identity needs to be changed. Our current leaders have not used this route as a way of solving African misfortunes, so the general youth population needs to take action. This will not be the routine way of solving African misfortunes through our current leaders as the buck stops with the youth innovative options.
This makes it necessary to employ innovative ideas to change lives. Youth communities are enveloped with activities that are supposedly driven by a common goal, but competition of projects has been the end product. If this was a business venture, you would either lose a place in the market or be forced to compromise the level of quality. We need to find high-quality, accessible ideas.
“Be an inspiring masterpiece in your country”
TakingITGlobal is an international youth –led organization that helps young people find inspiration, gain access to information, get involved and take action to improve their local and global communities. Their ‘youth guide to action’ publication focuses on providing ways to realize your goals and make a difference.
Get informed: It is never too late to dig for information on your area of interest. It could involve mending the ‘red ribbon’, peace building and conflict resolution initiatives, or any other positive response that creates sustainable livelihoods for youth. Get focused: Here is where you identify your passion and get to work. Get connected: Africa has never moved forward without community involvement. Young people need to work with each other. Get contacts and create a mailing list, or build relationships with potential allies. It can be challenging since some people will not want to share their skills with your project. Get moving and have a lasting impact: Objectives must be smart and must set your goals on target. Creating a time table will help your project run smoothly and ensure that you know what you are doing. As you record your project’s progress, recognize that you have made a difference. For more information, visit: www.takingitglobal.org
Technology is a great tool for self experience. The media can be an useful outlet to tell your story. Go blog, pod cast, or produce radio and video clips.
“Young people have an advantage because they have grown up using technology and understand the internet better than the older generation” Andrew Heavens
Young people ideas are rewarded by the Staying Alive Foundation. Two years ago, I was trained by Global Youth Coalition on HIV/AIDS on project management. I learned how to write proposals and keep track of project activities. Later, I submitted my proposal idea to be implemented in my community. I was one of the winners of the SAF awards in 2007. You can view more of the awarded youth projects at: www.staying-alive.org
“Simple ideas can change millions. Think small and within reach”
In November 2006, during a youth forum, I asked the heads of UNICEF, in the presence of Angelique Kidjo, “Why do UN bodies nominate celebrities as ambassadors?” I dare you to make a difference today and be the ambassador of hope for your community.
‘Speak Africa’ nature’s youth in re-branding Africa in different approaches. This was evident during the African Development Forum V conference, which explored Youth & Leadership in the 21st Century in Ethiopia.
