Seizing control of destiny: Sharaf Mahama’s call to action for youth on what lies ahead on International Youth Day

On this year’s International Youth Day, observed today, August 12, 2023, Sharaf Mahama, the son of former President John Dramani Mahama, issued a clarion call to his fellow young people, urging them to seize control of their destinies and proactively mould their future as they ponder on what lies ahead.

In a social media post commemorating International Youth Day 2023 under the theme ‘Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World,’ the younger Mahama underscored the need for young people to organize as catalysts for change, taking on active roles in shaping what lies ahead – a more promising future for themselves and their communities.

“Today marks an important day for us, young people across the world.

And as we celebrate the achievements and sacrifices of youths across the world, I want to remind you to think deeply about “what lies ahead” of us and how we can change the current negative narratives about our generation – narratives that do not reflect our hard work and character as young people,” he said.

Mahama acknowledged the mounting economic challenges that have cast a shadow over the future of young people, leaving them with limited hope.

Drawing on the strength of communal synergy, creativity, and determination, Mahama highlighted the potential to surmount obstacles obstructing the path to a prosperous collective future for young people.

We still have the opportunity as young people to group, think and act,” he urged.