Nowadays many young people from every corner of the world are facing challenges and at the same time they have emerged as powerful catalysts for social change. Young leaders are spearheading social impact initiatives and enterprises that address some of the world’s most pressing issues. From
environmental sustainability to social justice, these young change-makers are not only raising awareness but also implementing innovative solutions that drive meaningful impact. What drives them to create the social impact? Usually the answer is the same challenges they faced, mental health, environment and sustainability, employment, education.
The Rise of Youth-Led Social Enterprises
Social enterprises combine the mission-driven approach of non-profits with the sustainability and scalability of for-profit businesses. Youth-led social enterprises are particularly effective as they bring fresh perspectives and a willingness to challenge the status quo. These enterprises often focus on
addressing issues that directly affect young people, such as education, employment, mental health, and climate change.
Examples of Youth-Led Social Enterprises:
Greta Thunberg and Fridays for Future: At just 15, Greta Thunberg began her climate strike outside the Swedish Parliament. Her movement, Fridays for Future, has inspired millions of young people to demand climate action from their governments and has significantly raised global awareness about climate change.
Malala Fund: Co-founded by Malala Yousafzai, the Malala Fund advocates for girls education worldwide. After surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban, Malala has become a global symbol of the fight for girls rights to education.
Crimson Education: Founded by Jamie Beaton while still a teenager, Crimson Education helps students gain admission to the world’s best universities. The enterprise democratizes access to high- quality education through personalized mentoring and technology.
Factors Driving Youth Leadership in Social Impact
Several factors contribute to the growing influence of youth in the social impact space:
Digital Natives: Growing up with technology, today youth are adept at using digital tools to mobilize communities, spread awareness, and scale their initiatives. Social media platforms allow them to reach global audiences and foster collaborative efforts.
Global Awareness: Young people are more informed about global issues than ever before. Access to information through the internet has made them more aware of social, environmental, and political challenges, motivating them to take action.
Passion for Change: The younger generation often exhibits a strong sense of purpose and urgency in addressing societal issues. This passion drives them to innovate and take risks that older generations might avoid.
Collaborative Spirit: Youth are more inclined towards collaboration rather than competition. They are open to partnering with like-minded individuals and organizations to amplify their impact.
Challenges Faced by Youth Leaders
Despite their potential, young social entrepreneurs face several challenges:
Access to Funding: Securing financial support can be difficult for young leaders who lack established networks and credibility. Traditional funding sources may be hesitant to invest in youth-led initiatives.
Mentorship and Guidance: While passion is a powerful driver, experience and strategic guidance are crucial for the success of any enterprise. Many young leaders struggle to find mentors who can help them navigate the complexities of running a social enterprise.
Institutional Barriers: Youth often encounter resistance from established institutions that may be slow to adapt to new ideas or approaches. Overcoming bureaucratic hurdles requires resilience and persistence.
Balancing Commitments: Many young social entrepreneurs are still in school or early in their careers, making it challenging to balance their social initiatives with other commitments.
Youth-led social impact initiatives and enterprises hold immense promise for driving positive change in the world. By harnessing their creativity, passion, and technological prowess, young leaders are addressing critical issues and building a more sustainable and equitable future. It is imperative that we support and empower these young change-makers, providing them with the resources, guidance, and platforms they need to thrive. The future is bright, and it is being shaped by the vision and determination of today’s youth.
By Rosica Stojkovska Zivkovska
Reference links:
Global survey 2023 on the topic of Enabling Youth Led Positive Social Impact
Changemakers
Youth Co
Global Changemakers
