Your voice matters and it can make a difference

Your voice matters, and it can make a difference. The enemy of progress is self-doubt which can hinder all aspects of your life. Therefore, be deliberate in exercising confidence.

While many have the opinion that young people should not be involved in politics, it is important for us to use our democratic rights to make our voices heard and to make a positive impact. You must understand why and how your participation in politics matters. Understanding your role in the political arena at an early age equips you for future participation.

The silent minority

You live in a democratic land, meaning the voice of the people counts; thus, the majority rules. Therefore, you can’t be a silent majority. It would help if you spoke up instead of complaining on the sidelines.

We have the freedom to say what we want, but when we are silent, the minority who voice their desires end up getting what they want while the majority suffers. Certainly, your voice is vital in shaping the country to be a place that is free from corruption and combating injustice.

Can the real politicians step forward

Unfortunately, there is a lot of misunderstanding about what being a politician means. In the original Greek, the word politician broken down means Civil Servant. Furthermore, Civil means of or relating to citizens, while Servant means a devoted and helpful follower or supporter. Ultimately, the original context and meaning of the word politician mean to be a Good Citizen. For this reason, the word politician is not reserved for members of parliament.

All who practice their democratic rights well are politicians.  Therefore, being a politician means living responsibly by doing something as simple as not littering or as courageous as speaking out against injustices. Moreover, you must be aware of your country’s political state and educated to make a difference to make more informed decisions when engaging in the political sphere.

Consequently, you are likely to respond more favourably to injustice than react. A good example is how some may choose to burn down buildings in reaction to a lack of funding for education. Instead, you can respond to such injustice by harnessing the power of your unity by getting people who can mobilise on your behalf (like lawyers and policymakers) to negotiate better education opportunities. Buildings remain intact, and no one is harmed, but intellect is used for positive change.

Talking about better education possibilities. With I Am Youth e-learning, you pay only R100 a year to gain access to a wide range of courses that will help you to develop new skills to make yourself a more compelling candidate for any career.

Being salt and light

Young people must participate in politics as it is another way to be salt and light. Therefore, you must show up and be seen and heard in political spaces. You are to speak out against corruption, injustices and gender-based violence. Granted, young people have generally been brought up to be spectators in places where ‘adults’ speak, and it may be intimidating to speak up.

However, your perspective on life brings many potential innovative solutions that may otherwise not be known. Scripture is filled with stories of youth making changes their elders would not have dared to, from King David to Joshua and Caleb and finally to Jesus Himself, who started a revolution of faith. We can exercise our right to participate while respecting those who came before us.

Join Given, Kelitha and their special guest Dr Pearl Kupe, as we take a deep dive into the legal and political arena. You’ll gain insight and inspiration to get involved in politics and use your democratic right to make your voice heard. Consequently, influencing a positive impact for the Kingdom of God.

“Your Voice Matters”,