International Youth Day: How to Celebrate and Back Young People
Did you know more than 60% of Africa’s population is under 25? International Youth Day (August 12) is a chance to turn that energy into opportunity. This page gives straightforward, practical ways to mark the day, support youth in your town, and push for real change beyond a single event.
Simple ways to celebrate locally
Host a skills workshop that teaches marketable abilities: basic coding, social media marketing, CV writing, or interview practice. Keep sessions short and hands-on so people leave with something they can use right away.
Set up a youth job fair or micro-entrepreneur market. Invite local businesses, NGOs, and training providers. Small stalls let young entrepreneurs sell crafts or test a business idea without big costs — and employers can meet eager job seekers in person.
Run a panel or open mic where young people speak about what matters to them: climate, jobs, education, mental health. When youth lead the conversation, solutions look different and more relevant.
Use social media to amplify youth voices. Create a simple hashtag, record short interviews, and share success stories. Digital visibility helps young leaders connect with mentors, funders, and partners outside their immediate community.
Ways to support youth beyond the day
Start a mentorship program pairing high school or university students with professionals. Even one hour a week of guidance on goal setting, job search, or small business basics makes a big difference.
Partner with online learning platforms to give young people free or subsidized courses in tech, business, or healthcare. Upskilling is one of the fastest ways to boost employability.
Push for local policy changes that matter: internships with fair pay, better transport to training centers, or safer public spaces. Contact your local councillor with clear asks and short evidence — numbers or a one-page summary work best.
Prioritize mental health. Create drop-in support hours, peer support groups, or a list of affordable counselors. Young people face pressure from job hunts, studies, and social media — concrete support reduces dropouts and burnout.
Fund small grants for youth-led projects. A few hundred dollars can launch a community garden, a coding club, or a pop-up repair shop. Make the application simple and give feedback, even to those who don’t win funding.
Want inspiration? Look for local NGOs, school clubs, or community radio to partner with. Start small, measure what works, and repeat the best activities. International Youth Day can be a launchpad — not just a one-off celebration.
If you're planning an event or project and want tips tailored to your town or budget, CottonCandi News can help connect you with stories and resources from across Africa. Share your idea, and let’s make it practical and impactful.
