In a celebration of youthful energy and cultural vibrancy, the 13th Commonwealth Youth Forum (CYF) opened in Apia, Samoa, with hundreds of young leaders from the 56 Commonwealth nations in attendance. Held over two days, the event showcased the achievements made since the last Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which led to the declaration of the Commonwealth Year of Youth.
The Onomea youth dance group, dressed in traditional Samoan attire, set the stage with a captivating performance, featuring the iconic Tuiga headpiece adorned with human hair and mirrors. As representatives from each Commonwealth nation joined Samoan dancers on stage, the message of diversity and unity became clear. The gathering underscored the commitment of the Commonwealth’s youth to addressing the pressing challenges facing their countries, from social and economic issues to environmental concerns.
The forum focused on four key themes: building resilient democracies, economies, environments, and people. Speaking to an audience of over 350 youth leaders, government officials, and stakeholders, Leiataualesa Kevin Lucky, Chairperson of the Samoa National Youth Council, emphasized the present-day impact of young leaders. He said, “Young people in the Pacific and the Commonwealth are rising as leaders, innovators, and champions of change. We’re not just the future – we’re the present.”
Kim Allen, Chairperson of the Commonwealth Youth Council, acknowledged the significant challenges the world faces, including climate change, inequality, and social injustice, but expressed admiration for the resilience and creativity of the young people she has worked with across the Commonwealth over the past two years.
In his welcome address, Deputy Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Dr. Arjoon Suddhoo, praised the contributions of young people, noting that the 13th CYF is both a celebration of accomplishments and a moment to look ahead. He highlighted the resilience, innovation, and dedication of youth-led initiatives, particularly in the post-COVID era.
During the forum, young leaders will agree on policy recommendations, which will be presented to Heads of Government in a Youth Declaration on the final day. Additionally, they will engage in intergenerational dialogue with leaders and present a new Memorandum of Understanding for the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP), securing the program’s sustainability for the next 50 years.
Source: The Commonwealth
