Kildonan Youth Group committed to youth development

YOUTH empowerment and youth development are vital in alleviating poverty in any nation or community. They significantly impact the inclusive and democratic process of creating social cohesion, economic success and political stability in a country.

Anthony John, a young and robust president of the Kildonan Youth Champion Network (youth group), and other members of the group, are working towards getting the community’s young people involved in meaningful recreational activities after school and on the weekends. “We are looking to build ourselves and the young people in the community; we are pushing them in the direction of bettering their lives in a respectable way and making meaningful use of their free time,” said John.

He explained that there isn’t much that is happening in the community in regards to youth development but noted that the youngsters were approached and seemed “very interested” in participating in sporting activities within the village as well as even competing with other groups from different villages. “Because there’s nothing much that’s going on in the community for them to take part in, you find that they may get themselves involved in situations that they shouldn’t be in,” said Anthony.

Having the community’s elders give more support to the young people is one of John’s major concerns. John stated that he would like to see the elders in Kildonan have a little more faith in the younger generation and support, guide and encourage them to elevate themselves. According to John, he has recognised that the elders have lived long lives and have a wealth of knowledge and experiences, but he is also asking them to place some trust in them, even though they may not have it all together. They are, however, working on themselves to be better and with their support, John believes that they will get there faster.

According to the youth group president, before every game, they have discussions with the youths about school, their day, or just listen to them and their concerns and what they would like to see done. Anthony noted that they are anxiously waiting for the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Charles Ramson, to revisit Kildonan and develop the playground, basketball court and its facilities. They are also excited for him to equip their group with the necessary cricket, football and basketball gear.

Anthony John is also requesting that the business communities within the village and across the region help their youth group in whatever way that they can. “I [would] really love to see the businessmen support us with the tools that we need to better ourselves. It is our hope and vision that Kildonan will produce a great sportsman or sportswoman, but we cannot do our best if we do not have the proper gear or equipment,” he shared.

The president of the youth group said that they are presently targetting the young individuals involved in heavy drinking or smoking, hoping that they can show them a better and more productive life outside of the life they have chosen for themselves. Anthony is hoping that they can, one day, get all of the young people of Kildonan and neighbouring communities involved and off the streets. He explained that it is his hope that other communities can look at the Kildonan youth group in the future and emulate the standard that the members have set for themselves.

He will want the people of the community, and especially the youth, to know that “no matter how hard life gets or whatever you are going through, know that it will get better, but turning to drugs or alcohol is not the answer.”