Some have warned that in addition to the tragedy of lost lives and the pain of lost livelihoods, a generation has lost its chance to contribute to our future. But I have seen how young people today — the world’s largest generation of youth in history — is finding purpose in this moment of crisis, and inspiring others to hope and act.
We have all been thrust into a new environment. The coronavirus has made new terms like social distancing and self-isolation common, and enveloped communities around the world in fear. But even as young people face unprecedented difficulties and uncharted paths, they are rising up to make a difference.
Through the confusion, stress and worry that the pandemic naturally causes, young activists and volunteers across the globe are generating ideas, energy and empathy, saving countless lives.
As the United Nations Secretary General’s Envoy on Youth, I know there is no better resource in times of trouble than young people. Yes, we need scientific breakthroughs, action by governments and a massive amount of financing, but we also need the kind of initiative and resourcefulness that motivate the world’s outstanding youth.
That is why starting from today, every week, I want to introduce ten young people fighting coronavirus in their communities. You may never visit South Sudan, or travel to Peru, or find yourself in Italy, but when you read their stories you can find something that transcends time and space: a universal impulse to help others in times of need.
We will get through this crisis. And when we do, I am sure that history will show the world’s young people helped to bridge the world from fear to hope and from confusion to understanding.
Now meet 10 young people are prime examples of how the youth are reminding their communities how to stick together, even when we’re all staying apart. Their courage gives me confidence that young people can manifest the best in humanity — and that is a light that will shine for generations to come.
