Youth play an important role in being the agents of change and creating a positive impact. This role is a direct result of having a sense of acting socially responsible. Quoting Komrelliwar and Akre in their study, social responsibility is the act of being responsible for one’s actions and behavior in a way that is of benefit to society as a whole.
We define the word “youth” as people ranging from the age of 15 until 24 years old; this demographic is increasingly participating in society in areas such as education, healthcare, services, the economy, and others. Maconachie states in his journal that society yearns for youth to develop their potential, be productive, and bring multiple benefits for the society. This could be done by engaging youth in various empowerment and development opportunities.
This objective aligns with AIESEC’s goal as a global, independent, non-partisan, and youth-run organization. Since 1948, AIESEC has been enabling youth to explore and develop their leadership potential. Therefore, youth can engage, develop, and empower themselves to become value-driven leaders. They eventually can positively impact their surroundings and be able to create a better future.
There are many AIESECers who have successfully proven that they can develop their potential and make a difference. One of them is Kayla Nurfayza, a member of AIESEC at Padjadjaran University. She is currently the Team Leader of Customer Experience for AIESEC Future Leaders, where she is responsible for listening to the needs of AFL participants and ensuring they have the best experience to develop their leadership potential.
Let’s hear her story about her journey to create a positive impact as a youth! Firstly, she defines “impact” as a way of being more helpful to those around her. She starts by being more thoughtful and supportive of her family, friends and small team. She puts her heart into leading by example. She knows that she can motivate them to fulfill their potential and together make a much greater impact.
She believes that youth need to be socially responsible as agents of change, so she connects with other like-minded young people with similar visions and goals. She strives to develop and collaborate with other young people to address the challenges facing society by utilizing each person’s unique potential. AIESEC became the suitable place for her to be the leader she aspires to be. This is Kayla’s way of making a positive impact.
“We have unconsciously made a positive impact on the people around us by trying to be better every day. Young people have the access and potential to start having a greater impact by inspiring others to foster positive change. Start impacting within yourself,” she proudly says.
We believe that youth has the opportunity to develop their leadership potential. Being a value-driven youth means to have the ability to foster positive impact and create a difference as a socially responsible leader. You can discover your own leadership journey with AIESEC. Follow us on Instagram @aiesec.unpad for more information regarding youth empowerment and development opportunities!
credit foto : AIESEC UNPAD
Teks : AIESEC UNPAD
