Y20 delegates urge youth to unite for global change

Delegates participating in the Y20 Summit have emphasized the importance of youth cohesion, as a driving force for influencing government policy and fostering social change.

The five-day summit, held in Boksburg, brought together hundreds of youth from across the continent and around the globe.

The Y20 Summit, a youth engagement group under the G20, serves as a platform for young leaders to draft recommendations that will be presented to G20 heads of state.

As the final day of negotiations concluded, delegates expressed hope that their collective efforts would lead to meaningful change and have a lasting impact on global decision-making.

Among the participants was Nigerian guest and observer, David Opaktuma, who attended the summit to deepen his understanding of negotiation processes and the complexities of cross-cultural dialogue.

“Mutual understanding is vital for progress,” said Opaktuma. “Young people must learn to celebrate differences while creating new opportunities for collaboration.”

He also underscored the importance of youth agency in policymaking.

“For too long, we have been spoken for. What we’ve witnessed and experienced are decisions made without us. Yet we are 60% of the population — we already have the loudest and largest voices. What we’re doing here is learning what to say, how to say it, and where to say it. That way, we leverage our population, intellect, networks, and connectivity to ensure our message doesn’t exist in silos, but echoes through generations.”

Other young delegates echoed similar sentiments, calling for urgent government action to address pressing issues such as gender inequality and the digital divide.

Thabiso Ndlovu, a 28-year-old South African gender equality advocate, emphasized the need for equitable access to technology and digital resources across the country.

“Bridging the digital divide is critical,” said Ndlovu. “But we’re also falling behind on gender equality. The marginalisation of women is still very prevalent in South Africa across various sectors. What I hope to learn here is how governments can better align their efforts to address not just digital access, but also gender inequality.”

As for the outcomes of the negotiations, Y20 Chairperson Raymond Madlala noted that no final recommendations have yet been adopted.

“For the first time in 14 years of the Y20 process — the oldest G20 engagement group — the summit concludes without a confirmed communique,” said Madlala. “This decision was not taken lightly. South Africa remains committed to endorsing a communique that carries genuine meaning and purpose.”

Despite the lack of a formal conclusion, the contributions of young delegates were praised by leaders in attendance.

Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Steve Letsike, commended the vibrant participation throughout the summit.

“This week, this venue echoed with songs, debates, and dreams — through negotiations, panel discussions, and cultural exchanges. You have crafted a unique agenda that reflects the aspirations of youth not only in G20 countries, but globally. Your energy, your willingness to listen, and your insistence on action are truly inspiring.”

Written by: Odirile Rabalao