IT’S 2025, and around the world, it’s a year known for many reasons, but for Guyana, it is our year for another general election. I can recall the last general election vividly, mainly because it was my first time voting. I remember not being enthusiastic at first, but after engaging in a voter education informational session, my perspective on voting changed. As such, while we still have some time before our general election, I know many young people like myself are still considering what to do on Election Day. Is it worth it to vote? What is the significance of voting? Does my vote count? These questions and more remain unanswered for many young people in Guyana, and I am here to enlighten you on the importance of the youth vote.

I am not writing this column to tell you who or what to vote for. Instead, I want to discuss some of the unanswered questions regarding the youth vote. First and foremost, voting gives you direct control over who you would like to lead your country. The leaders you vote for determine the type of healthcare you access, the quality of education you receive, and even the amount of money you make—just to name a few. According to GECOM, an average of 45 per cent of the electorate comprises youth voters, specifically those between the ages of 18 and 35. While there is still room for improvement in youth voter turnout, it is undeniable that the youth vote is crucial in deciding who leads our country, given our large youth population.

Youth voter participation ensures that young people vote for candidates and policies that align with their values and principles. It is also important because when youth voters highly influence an election, national leaders are more likely to listen to and support youth-related policies and objectives. Young voters collectively have the power to ensure that decisions are not homogenised and that power is shifted when necessary.

As a young voter myself, I vote because it is my civic duty and obligation. Voting is not only important in a presidential election; it is an integral part of choosing who leads our churches, who heads our youth groups, who becomes our town’s mayor, and what local policies we want to support.

Young people, in general, bring fresh and new perspectives to political and social issues. In fact, history has shown that young people have always been at the forefront of movements such as women’s rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, and climate action. Voting also allows us to set a precedent for future generations. When young people show up to vote at polling stations, it is often recorded in the news, serving as a reminder for future generations to exercise their right to vote. By voting now as young people, we are setting the stage for habitual voting among future youth voters.

These days, young people are often influenced by “trends” and what’s “popping” on social media or online. As such, we must make voting “trendy” this season to ensure we elect the best possible candidates—those who align with our beliefs and values as young voters. Voting in this election will help transform Guyana into the land we want to stay in and build our lives in—for ourselves and our future families.

Be sure to get registered soon and check the lists at your local GECOM office to ensure that your name is included. I hope you don’t take your democratic right for granted and that you exercise it this election season.