In a world that often feels dominated by negativity, despair, and conflict, it is easy to feel disheartened and helpless. Constant reminders of war, social media negativity, school shootings, religious discrepancies, climate threats, poverty, and racial discrimination, makes it challenging to navigate the 21st century. However, amidst all of this darkness, there is a beacon of hope: our youth.

When we look to the future, it is clear that our world is in need of healing and transformation. But it is not just up to governments to bring about change. It is up to us, the young people of the world, to lead the way. We are the ones who will inherit this planet and shape its future. And that's an incredible opportunity.

In my opinion, the only way to combat the overwhelming feeling of negativity, is to find inner peace. Nothing we attract can bring peace if we don’t feel it ourselves. Many people are struggling with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. According to a 2021 Mental Health America report, “severe major depression has increased in youth to 9.7% globally. This is an increase from 9.2% in 2020.” But even in the face of these challenges, we have the power to make a difference. We can be the ones who create a peaceful future for ourselves and for generations to come.

We must remember that even small actions can have a big impact. Whether it is reaching out to someone who is struggling, starting a grassroots movement in our communities, or creating a website that  raises awareness about important issues, we have the power to effect change. We can be the ones who inspire hope and bring about real, tangible results.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have had to make a difference in my community. As President of my school's Charity Club, I have been able to innovate and make a positive impact time and time again. It has been humbling to speak with Ghanaian women who are supported by our club. Many of the women were widows who lost their partners in accidents or medical complications. They let go of their aspirations in hopes of building a better future for their children and escape the cycle of poverty. Together with the women and my peers, we created a website called NutriDelve. The website raises funds for women and children suffering from malnutrition or obesity.

Through this project, I have learned that the issues facing our world are complex and multifaceted. But I have also learned that there are always solutions, if we are willing to put in the effort and work together. By bringing together a team of researchers, university professors, and nutritionists from around the world, we were able to create a program that has already inspired many families in Ghana. We went on to inspire many families in Ghana, and the Charity Club won a development grant from the International American Women’s Club. Four thousand dollars to further develop our nutrition program. Now I am working with ambassadors to further elevate this cause.

I share this not to boast, but to inspire. We are all capable of making a positive impact in our communities and in the world at large. We have the power to create change, and we must take that responsibility seriously. Peace is not an unachievable goal; it is a fundamental requirement for a better world. And we, as young people, are uniquely positioned to make that vision a reality.

So let us be the leaders that our world needs. Let us be the ones who speak out against injustice, who stand up for what is right, and who work tirelessly to create a better future. We may be young, but we are powerful. We may face challenges, but we are resilient. And we may live in a world that often feels dark, but we are the ones who can bring light. Let us own that responsibility with courage, passion, and hope.