By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
The Lesotho Youth Summit stands as a testament to the power of youth-driven initiatives. Born from the recognition of the critical role young people play in shaping the future of their nation, this annual gathering aims to equip, empower, and inspire a generation of change-makers.
Uniquely, the Lesotho Youth Summit is not merely a platform for youth, it is a platform by youth. Conceived and driven by young people themselves, the summit embodies a spirit of self-determination and a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by their generation.
According to https://www.lesothoyouthsummit.org: The core mission of the summit is ambitious yet attainable: to gather 500 young individuals, aged 18-35, from every corner of Lesotho. These are not just ordinary participants; they are carefully selected – 50 exceptional young leaders from each district, recognised for their contributions to their communities. This includes those who have:
*Solved community problems from addressing local environmental concerns to improving access to education, these young change-makers have demonstrated a proactive approach to community development.
*Those who made a positive impact through actions, whether through volunteer work, social initiatives, or innovative projects, have left a tangible mark on their communities.
* They demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit, aspiring and successful young entrepreneurs are integral to the summit. They share their knowledge, inspire others, and showcase the potential for economic growth through innovative business ventures.
Lesotho Youth Summit provides a dynamic platform for skills development: Workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions equip participants with valuable skills in areas such as leadership, communication, critical thinking, and project management. The summit fosters a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting young people with successful business owners, providing mentorship opportunities, and showcasing the diverse landscape of successful businesses within Lesotho.
Through networking and collaboration, the summit facilitates invaluable networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with peers, mentors, and potential collaborators, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Also Lesotho Youth Summit it provides Policy dialogue platform for youth to engage with policymakers and other stakeholders, the summit ensures that the voices and perspectives of young people are heard and considered in decision-making processes.
However, the second edition of the Lesotho Youth Summit, was held from October 7th to 9th, 2024, in Mafeteng, marked a significant milestone. Building upon the success of the inaugural event, the 2024 summit expanded its reach and deepened its impact.
It had an impact in through increased participation, larger and more diverse group of young leaders convened, reflecting the growing momentum and enthusiasm surrounding the initiative. Also, summit enhanced focus on entrepreneurship- the summit placed a stronger emphasis on entrepreneurship, featuring successful local businesses as role models and providing practical guidance on starting and growing a business.
In addition, the summit actively engaged with the local community in Mafeteng, showcasing the talents and contributions of young people and fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the region.
The Lesotho Youth Summit is not merely an annual event, it is a long-term investment in the future of the nation. Through sustained effort and continued innovation, the summit aims to:
*Empower a generation of leaders, to cultivate a team of young leaders who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to drive positive change within their communities and the nation as a whole.
*Fostering a culture of innovation encourages a spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation among young people, creating a more dynamic and prosperous economy. Strengthen civic engagement, to empower young people to actively participate in the political and social life of their nation, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.
The Lesotho Youth Summit represents a beacon of hope for the future of the nation. By empowering young people, fostering their leadership potential, and nurturing their entrepreneurial spirit, the summit is paving the way for a brighter future for Lesotho. As this youth-led movement continues to grow and evolve, it will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the nation.
Be on the lookout for the highly anticipated 2025 Lesotho Youth Summit, scheduled from October 8th to 10th, 2025 in Mohale’s Hoek. This vibrant event is a fantastic opportunity for young Basotho, to come together, share ideas, and foster positive change in their communities. The summit focuses on empowering youth by providing them with knowledge, skills, and a platform to engage with stakeholders.
This year’s theme, “Engaging Youth Power to Achieve Continuing Excellence, in Collaboration with All Stakeholders,” highlights the importance of unity and collaboration in driving Lesotho forward. You won’t want to miss this chance to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from experts, and be part of an inspiring movement towards a brighter future for Lesotho’s youth.