As Head of the Commonwealth, His Majesty The King is opening.

an international
conference on the importance of young people in decision making. Write his speech

Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and most importantly, the vibrant young minds
gathered here today,

I stand before you as the Head of the Commonwealth, but more importantly, as an ardent
believer in the transformative power of youth. It is with great honour and pride that I
inaugurate this international conference, which seeks to emphasise the indispensable role of
our young generation in decision-making processes. Today, we embark on a journey where
the echoes of their voices will resound in the chambers of power.

Imagine, if you will, a majestic tapestry woven with threads of diversity, innovation, and
boundless potential. Each thread represents a young individual, poised to paint the canvas
of our future. Like the vibrant hues of a sunrise, their energy and enthusiasm breathe life into
our collective aspirations. In this vast tapestry, every single thread, regardless of its shade, is
indispensable, for it is the interplay of colours that creates a masterpiece of progress.

The youth of today, armed with unprecedented access to knowledge and technology, have
the power to redefine our world. They are the drivers of innovation, with fresh perspectives
that challenge traditional norms and inspire new possibilities. Youth-led initiatives and
startups are transforming industries, from renewable energy and sustainable agriculture to
artificial intelligence and healthcare. Their entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to take risks
propel society forward, creating jobs, driving economic growth, and addressing pressing
global challenges.

Moreover, the voices of young people are essential in shaping policies that directly impact
their lives. They bring firsthand experiences of the issues they face, offering unique insights
into areas such as education, employment, mental health, and social justice. By including
them in decision-making processes, we ensure that policies are not only relevant but also
inclusive and equitable. The active participation of youth in governance promotes
transparency, accountability, and fosters a sense of ownership over the decisions that shape
their communities.

Furthermore, the youth of today are at the forefront of movements for social change and
environmental sustainability. From climate activism to advocating for gender equality and
human rights, they are fearless champions of justice and equality. Their voices amplify the
urgency of addressing the climate crisis, reminding us of the responsibility we hold to
safeguard the planet for future generations. By engaging with and empowering the youth, we
strengthen the fabric of our societies and build a bridge between the aspirations of today and
the realities of tomorrow.

In recent years, we have witnessed remarkable examples of youth-driven change. Greta

Thunberg, a Swedish teenager, captured the world's attention with her passionate advocacy
for climate action. Her determination and unwavering commitment to raising awareness
about the pressing environmental challenges facing our planet have inspired millions of
young people to join the fight against climate change. Greta's actions serve as a testament
to the power of youth voices in galvanising global movements and driving systemic change.
Similarly, the Black Lives Matter movement, ignited by the tragic killing of George Floyd, saw
an outpouring of youth-led protests demanding an end to racial injustice and police brutality.
Young activists took to the streets, demanding accountability, equality, and an end to
systemic racism. Their courageous voices reverberated across the world, sparking crucial
conversations and pushing for tangible reforms. It is through their perseverance that we see
progress towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

But let us remember, as we venture into uncharted territories, that this tapestry is not
complete without the guidance and wisdom of those who have traversed these paths before.
Just as the roots of a towering tree anchor it firmly in the ground, the experiences of our
elders provide stability and nourishment to the young shoots of promise. Let us create a
nurturing environment where generations intertwine, fostering collaboration, understanding,
and mutual respect.

The Intergenerational exchange of knowledge and ideas is crucial in harnessing the full
potential of our youth. Mentorship programs, internships, and partnerships between
experienced professionals and young leaders can create a supportive ecosystem where
wisdom meets innovation. By bridging the generation gap, we can ensure a seamless
transfer of knowledge, allowing the youth to build upon the foundations laid by their
predecessors while incorporating fresh perspectives and approaches.

It is worth noting that the challenges faced by the youth today are unique and complex. The
digital age has brought both immense opportunities and new hurdles. While technological
advancements have expanded connectivity and access to information, they have also given
rise to concerns such as online harassment, privacy breaches, and digital inequalities. The
voices of the youth hold valuable insights into navigating these challenges, as they are the
ones most immersed in the digital landscape. Their perspectives can inform policies and
strategies that address the evolving needs and risks in this rapidly changing world.

Furthermore, empowering young people goes beyond providing them with a seat at the
table; it requires creating an enabling environment where their voices are genuinely heard
and respected. Youth participation should not be tokenistic, but rather deeply rooted in the
principles of inclusivity and shared decision-making. Platforms for dialogue, such as youth
parliaments, town hall meetings, and online forums, should be established to encourage
open and meaningful engagement. By fostering a culture of active listening and valuing
diverse opinions, we can cultivate an environment that nurtures the growth and development
of our young leaders.

The power of youth extends far beyond national boundaries. In our interconnected world,
global challenges require collaborative and inclusive solutions. International platforms, such
as the United Nations' Youth Assembly and the Commonwealth Youth Council, provide
spaces for young people from different countries and backgrounds to come together, share
experiences, and advocate for collective action. Through these networks, young leaders can
amplify their voices on the global stage, influence international agendas, and contribute to
shaping a more sustainable and equitable world.
Moreover, the youth are not a homogenous group. They encompass diverse cultures,
perspectives, and experiences. It is crucial to recognize and embrace this diversity, ensuring
that no voices are marginalised or excluded. By promoting inclusivity, we unlock the full
potential of our youth, tapping into a wellspring of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving
skills. Organisations and governments must prioritise policies and initiatives that address
systemic barriers, such as gender inequality, discrimination, and socioeconomic disparities,
to create equal opportunities for all young people to thrive.

As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, we must also equip our youth with the
skills and knowledge needed to tackle emerging challenges. Education systems must adapt
to provide holistic and relevant learning experiences, incorporating critical thinking, digital
literacy, and empathy-building. By nurturing a culture of lifelong learning, we empower young
people to adapt to a rapidly changing world, to be agile problem solvers, and to embrace
innovation as they shape the future.

In closing, let us embrace this golden opportunity to celebrate the audacious spirit of our
young people. They are not merely observers of the world; they are the architects of its
future. So, as we embark on this journey of empowerment and inclusion, let us hold their
hands, like experienced sailors guiding a sturdy ship through turbulent seas. Together, we
shall navigate the tides of change, steering towards a horizon that promises a brighter, more
equitable world for all.

Thank you, and may the winds of inspiration and collaboration forever guide our path.