1976: The struggle continues

By Amukelani Mayimele

I often hear people complain about how there is no hope, how the world has many problems and can never change. The question is: has it ever occurred to them that they should do their part in changing the world? Could it be that people have chosen to settle for what is offered even though it’s not good enough? Have we lost the spirit and fervour the youth of 1976 had?

They were united for change. They started an uprising that continues to bring hope in young people’s lives. They made a decision to change things around, most importantly, they acted on that decision.

The uprising came but has not gone, it’s here and will still be here in the years to come. The struggle however does not remain the same. It takes on a new form as time passes. Hence a new generation of world leaders has taken a stand to fight the struggle of today. This uprising against social ills is spearheaded by a new generation of determined, like-minded, bright and passionate young people. Underlying their momentum is their belief in themselves and the belief that a positive change in the world can be achieved in their generation.

Hope does exist. The world will change.

We believe that just as the youth of 1976 brought about freedom to us, we will defend that freedom. In so doing, we will extend that freedom to our peers who do not share that basic human right. We want social and economic (financial) freedom and are fighting against injustice in all its forms. We have risen and are saying that poverty will not wipe out our generation. We seek to promote peace where war exists.

“We” are the youth. There are millions of us across the world. Together “we” are One Young World – a global youth platform. We’re creating the world we want to live in and following in the footsteps of our predecessors. We will change this world. The question is: will you join us in bringing about that change or will you accept the status quo and, in so doing, let the spirit of the youth of 1976 die?

Amukelani Mayimele (25) is a delegate for the One Young World Summit 2011. He is supported and sponsored by Development Bank of South Africa. He is a “change agent”, which is a leader that facilitates transition and development.