On 12 August every year the world pauses to celebrate International Youth day, a day set apart by the UN general assembly since 1999 to celebrate the creativity, leadership, energy and potential of youth in shaping a better world. This year was no different.

The theme for 2026,  "Different contexts, common aspirations" highlighted the fact that despite their varying geographic, cultural and historic backgrounds, young people share the same universal needs and aspirations. One of them is the need for proper mentorship and grooming into leadership.

The call for youth to take up leadership positions and contribute to the wellbeing of their communities and nations has been loud and clear for generations. From politicians, educationists and youth empowerment activists, everyone continues to call on young people to ‘occupy their space at the table'. This call is gaining traction as more young leaders are rising in every sphere of society.

While this is commendable and a step in the right direction, a deeper proding is necessary if we’re to get the results we envision out of youth leadership. The critical question is Who is nurturing, training and mentoring this young dynamic generation into effective, ethical leadership? Have our youth been told that transformational leadership doesn’t fall on a person simply because they’re burning with a passion to create change, that its seeds are sown and nurtured in the nursery bed of personal growth, character development, skills acquisition and mentorship?

Have we intentionally designed our schools, homes and religious institutions to be breeding grounds for the next generation of well rounded, value based shapers of destiny? The effects of half baked, ill prepared leaders are too evident and painful to ignore: rampant corruption, failed states, crippled institutions, broken homes, etc.

Each of us has a role to play. As an elder who is experienced in your craft, become an intentional mentor; identify, validate, teach and offer support to the younger ones in your circle of influence. It’s not about titles and accolades. True mentorship requires that we invest the time and effort that it takes to produce empowerment and growth in the mentee. To reproduce your values, ideals, beliefs and philosophy in others is one of the noblest accomplishments on earth. It means that you’ll have “disciples” who are loyal to you as a leader and who will propagate your dream and legacy long after you’re gone.

On the other hand, younger people need to have the wisdom of seeking out potential mentors. When you find one, make yourself accountable and teachable. It’s your own growth and destiny at stake, therefore be willing to pay the price of discipline and commitment to the development process. It won’t be a smooth ride, nothing of value comes easily, therefore keep your eyes on the prize of who you’re becoming as you learn from these elders.

At SoarAway, the need to fill in the mentorship gap drives our philosophy and programming. Our vision of  “A movement of creative, ethical leaders crafting the Africa of our dreams” has driven us into a deep analysis of the leadership question in Africa and around the world. We have come to the realization that Parents, educators, politicians, religious leaders and everyone in a position of authority needs to take up youth mentorship as a matter of urgency.

No one has ever reached their full potential and made a significant contribution to society without mentorship of some sort.

Everyone needs a mentor who can provide them with guidance, support, and encouragement. A good mentor inspires you, pushes you, opens doors, expands your horizons, and equips you with the tools and confidence to reach your potential.

Without mentoring, some of the world's greatest leaders, innovators, and role models would not have reached their full potential.

Examples are endless: Martin Luther King Jr. was mentored by Benjamin E. Mays, who encouraged him to pursue his doctoral degree and helped him develop his leadership skills. Warren Buffett was mentored by Benjamin Graham, a successful investor, and author, who taught him the principles of value investing and helped him build his financial empire. Oprah Winfrey was mentored by Maya Angelou, a renowned poet and author, who inspired her to become a media mogul and use her platform for good.

Our carefully designed mentorship programs are already showing us the immense power of nurturing potential and equipping young people to discover their true selves, their purpose and leadership potential. One such program is the Archer’ League, a 6 month intensive training and mentorship program for youth aged 15 to 21 years. Anuo Doreen, an Alumni of this program writes:

“My Name is Anuo Doreen, an Archer. Am 18 years. Am a student at Soroti SS, a public speaker, debator and i love making change in my community. The Archers League has been more than a home to me. It has been a place where dreams come true. Through it I have discovered my purpose and worth. I have learnt more about leadership, purpose and identity. Now am able to motivate my fellow youth and am also reaching out and mentoring young girls in my community”

Let’s not just call on youth to lead, lets prepare, empower and give them the tools they need to excel in their leadership!

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