The future of humanity carries so much promise and uncertainty. The youth will determine what shall come to pass. Their choices will either usher Australia into a new age of unity and hope or add to collective wounds that lead the country into an era of further social division and hopelessness.
Our youth, no matter their social class, gender or political leaning, hold immense power. So why not invest in them now, to create the country we want to see in a few years time?
So, what is our approach?
1. Disregard Stereotypes
It is important to set up programs that help youth who’ve come from volatile communities – who are often ignored by society. Australia has countless young adults who are gifted, honest and generous. Many are bursting at the seams with creativity and innovation. Some can at times, be fragile and insecure, while at other times, be armed with confidence and resilience.
In short, our young people are complex human beings with amazing potential. The media sometimes paints a gloomy, overly simplistic picture of youth from certain social backgrounds. This in turn, reinforces negative stereotypes about such youths. While this may be true for some, we should disregard any preconceived notions and consciously try to approach each one with open minds.
2. Unique Approach
We should not apply a “one-size fits all” mindset for our young people. Such an approach chooses to ignore the distinct ways in which each person may need our help. Of course, we acknowledge the common needs shared amongst our at-risk youth. But we should not ignore their differences. Every person is unique and each one has a unique set of fears, skills, problems and dreams.
3. Long Term Vision
We should treat our young adults with patience and commitment. Some may have gone through a traumatic experiences in the past but it is our duty as a society to aid in the healing process. The journey to personal development is rarely neat and easy.
4. Encourage Youth Volunteering
We as society should encourage the youth to volunteer and continually look beyond their needs. This fosters bonds among our youth thereby inspiring each other in all facets of life. By helping others, our youth can take a break from their own circumstances and focus on others in need – even if for a while.
5. Commitment to Positive Change
We should work with young people who are serious about changing their lives for the better. We want to meet people at whichever point they’re at in life and help them from here. Our young adults understand that we can’t do it for them.
Lastly, our youth deserve our best. They require support from people who will not approach them with implicit bias, who acknowledge their uniqueness, who are committed, who believe in them, who encourage them to help others and who offer practical help. We must respect our future leaders, business executives, artists and teachers by making sure we create a favourable ecosystem for their development.
