Series 93: The Power of Association - Lessons from Obama (Part 2) ????

Introduction:

UN Secretary-General António Guterres's words are a compelling call to action as we approach the Summit of the Future in September 2024.

"We can't build a future for our grandchildren with a system built for our grandparents," - António Guterres

This statement challenges us to rethink and reshape the very foundations of our global systems.

The Challenges:

Africa, a continent rich in potential, continues to grapple with severe challenges: poverty, hunger, bad leadership, economic instability, and insecurity. These issues, exacerbated by ineffective government policies, have left millions living below the poverty line and distanced the region from achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The weight of these problems can feel insurmountable, leaving many with a sense of despair.

Solutions:

However, the forthcoming Summit of the Future presents a unique opportunity to turn the tide. We can forge a path toward a more resilient and equitable future by focusing on sustainable financing, global peace, tech innovation, youth empowerment, and governance reform.

This high-level event, which will be held at the?United Nations?Headquarters in New York in September, will bring together UN Member States, agencies, NGOs, civil society organizations, academia, the private sector, and youth leaders worldwide.

Through collaboration and innovation, we can create a world that is liveable today and sustainable for future generations.

Call to Action:

The timeless creed "Yes We Can" is more than just words—it's a call to action, a rallying cry for all who believe in the possibility of a better world. As we confront the challenges before us, this mantra can be our guiding light across five critical areas:

• Sustainable Financing: 'Yes We Can' —mobilise the resources needed to fund a sustainable future. By innovating financing models and leveraging both public and private sectors, we can ensure that every community, especially those most vulnerable, can access the financial tools necessary to thrive.
• Global Peace: 'Yes We Can' —foster international peace. In a world of conflict and division, we must unite our voices and efforts to build bridges of understanding and cooperation. Through dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual respect, we can create a peaceful world where every person feels secure and valued.
• Tech Innovation: 'Yes We Can' —drive technological innovation that uplifts humanity. From bridging the digital divide to harnessing technology for environmental sustainability, innovation is critical to solving today's and tomorrow's problems. By embracing the power of technology, we can build a smarter, more connected world.
• Youth Empowerment: 'Yes We Can' — empower the next generation to lead. The youth are the future stewards of our planet, and we must equip them with the skills, opportunities, and platforms they need to make a difference. By investing in their education, leadership, and entrepreneurial endeavours, we can unleash their potential to shape a better world.
• Governance Reform: 'Yes We Can' —reform governance to be more transparent, inclusive, and effective. Good governance is the backbone of sustainable development, and it requires the active participation of all stakeholders. We can create institutions that genuinely serve the public good by advocating for policies that reflect the people's needs and aspirations.

Lessons from Barack Obama:

As we stand on the brink of this pivotal moment, we are reminded of Barack Obama's enduring mantra, Yes, We Can. This belief in transformation echoed in his speeches from 2008 to his recent address at the Democratic Convention, inspires us to tackle even the most daunting challenges.

We must embrace this spirit of possibility to create meaningful change for our children and future generations.

Together, we can reverse the adverse occurrences worldwide, especially in Africa, and write a new chapter in our global story.

As we prepare to face the challenges ahead, let us remember the power of "Yes We Can"—a mantra that calls us to action and unites us in our pursuit of a better world.

Together, we can achieve Sustainable Financing, foster Global Peace, drive Tech Innovation, empower our Youth, and reform Governance for a more just and equitable future.

Do you have a message for the world leaders? I will join them at the Summit of the Future, representing our organization and millions of youth globally!