By I. Hansana, Jadetimes News
Members of Northampton’s Youth Forum are set to take over West Northamptonshire Council’s social media accounts for a day in a unique initiative celebrating International Youth Day. This significant occasion aims to draw attention to a range of legal and cultural issues that continue to affect younger generations, providing an opportunity for the youth to voice their concerns and perspectives on a broader platform.
International Youth Day, first recognized in 2000, is an annual observance organized by the United Nations to celebrate the positive contributions young people make across various sectors, including education, employment, conflict resolution, and social justice. This global event shines a spotlight on the potential and resilience of youth, encouraging societies to engage with and support the younger generation in addressing the challenges they face. The day also seeks to promote awareness of the importance of involving youth in social, economic, and political processes.
In Northampton, the Youth Forum, a local youth council comprising representatives aged between 13 and 19, is taking an active role in this celebration. As part of the International Youth Day activities, the forum members will be managing the council’s social media platforms, such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, to share content that highlights the issues they find most pressing. This initiative not only empowers the youth by giving them control over a significant communication channel but also serves as a bridge between young people and the wider community, fostering greater understanding and dialogue.
Sarah, 17, one of the forum members involved in the social media takeover, explained that the group has been working on creating TikTok videos to raise awareness on critical issues such as racial and age related discrimination. These videos are designed to be both engaging and informative, aiming to challenge stereotypes and prompt reflection among viewers. “We wanted to use a platform that resonates with our generation to talk about issues that matter to us,” Sarah said. “By making TikToks, we’re hoping to reach people our age and beyond, and get them to think about how they perceive others.”
Another participant, Florence, also 17, shared her experience working on the project, noting that it has significantly impacted her understanding of communication and its effects. “Being involved in this project has made me a lot more aware of how words can impact people,” she said. Florence highlighted the importance of mindful communication, especially in a digital age where messages can spread rapidly and widely. She believes that the takeover will not only amplify youth voices but also encourage more thoughtful interactions online.
Harun, 18, emphasized the importance of social media as a tool for their generation, particularly in challenging societal norms and stereotypes. “This generation is on social media; it’s where we connect, express ourselves, and share our experiences,” he said. “Having this opportunity to run the council’s social media for a day is amazing because it allows us to challenge stereotypes directly and reach a wider audience. It’s empowering to know that we can make a difference.”
The Northampton Youth Forum, established to represent the town’s young people, plays a crucial role in giving youth a platform to voice their opinions and participate in decision making processes. The forum engages with local issues, advocating on behalf of young people in Northampton, and ensures that their perspectives are considered in matters that affect the community. By taking over the council’s social media for a day, the forum members are not only practicing their communication and leadership skills but also making a tangible impact on their community by addressing issues that matter to them.
In preparation for the social media takeover, the forum members have been working closely with council staff to understand the responsibilities involved in managing public communication channels. They have developed content plans, created multimedia posts, and strategized on how best to engage with the public. This experience provides them with valuable insights into the workings of local government and the importance of public communication in shaping community perceptions and actions.
International Youth Day serves as a reminder of the vital role that young people play in building a more inclusive, just, and sustainable world. The initiative by Northampton’s Youth Forum exemplifies how empowering youth and providing them with platforms to express themselves can lead to positive change. As they take control of West Northamptonshire Council’s social media, these young leaders are not just participating in a global celebration but also actively contributing to the ongoing dialogue on social justice and equality. Their involvement underscores the potential of youth to drive meaningful change and highlights the importance of giving them a voice in the community.
Through this takeover, the forum members hope to inspire other young people to get involved in their communities and use their voices to advocate for the issues they care about. They also aim to demonstrate to the broader public the value of listening to and supporting youth in their efforts to create a better future for all.
