At AIESEC in Nigeria’s IYD 2025, Youth Leaders Prove the Future Is Now

At AIESEC in Nigeria’s IYD 2025, Youth Leaders Prove the Future Is Now

Estimated Reading Time: Approximately 7 minutes

• Youth are actively building the future, not just inheriting it, by leveraging connection and local action.
• Authentic human connection and community building are as crucial as digital tools for impactful change.
• Local initiatives and stories that highlight contributions to SDGs have global relevance and inspire further action.
• Storytelling empowers young leaders to own their narratives, inspire peers, and attract vital partnerships.
• Meaningful partnerships between youth and supportive institutions are essential to overcome challenges and unlock potential.

• Harnessing Humanity’s Superpower: Shaping Tomorrow, Today
• Beyond Digital: Reimagining Connection and Community
• From Local Action to Global Impact: Stories That Matter
• Challenges and the Power of Partnership
• Actionable Steps for Youth Leaders and Advocates
• Real-World Example: “Tech for Teens” Initiative in Lagos
• Conclusion: The Future Is Not Waiting

The year is 2025, and across Nigeria, a vibrant wave of young leaders is not just imagining the future—they are actively building it. This palpable energy was on full display at AIESEC in Nigeria’s International Youth Day (IYD) 2025 event, a pivotal gathering titled “Youth in a Connected World.” Far from a theoretical discussion, the event served as a powerful testament to the agency and impact of youth, demonstrating that the future isn’t a distant horizon, but a present opportunity to be seized.

The conference brought together bright minds, innovators, and changemakers, all united by a shared vision: to leverage their collective power for sustainable development and global progress. It underscored a fundamental truth often overlooked: the youth of today are not merely inheritors of tomorrow; they are its architects. Their ideas, actions, and connections are laying the groundwork for the world we will all inhabit. The conversations were rich, challenging, and profoundly inspiring, diving deep into how digital advancements and authentic human connections can converge to create meaningful, lasting change.

Harnessing Humanity’s Superpower: Shaping Tomorrow, Today

Central to the discourse at AIESEC in Nigeria’s IYD 2025 was a profound understanding of our collective ability to influence what lies ahead. As eloquently put by one of the panelists:

“The future is an abstract, out-of-reach concept. We will never get to live in or truly know it. But it is not so elusive that we cannot impress upon it, shape it. On the contrary, we do so with or without intention. Our actions today, if coordinated and purposeful, will give us a tomorrow that we can all be proud to be a part of. It’s one of humanity’s best superpowers.

Understanding how Youth can harness this power was the central focus at AIESEC in Nigeria’s IYD 2025 event titled “Youth in a Connected World”. I was privileged to share very necessary conversations alongside an ensemble panel on today’s technology and how it can be leveraged to effect real change on a global scale, local youth action towards SDGs, and the power of community.

This powerful statement set the tone for a series of discussions that transcended mere rhetoric, delving into practical ways youth can activate this “superpower.” The event explored the multifaceted dimensions of youth engagement, from the ethical considerations of technology to the grassroots movements driving change in local communities. Panelists, including Okonkwo Marycynthia, Angela Onyegbuna, and Boluwatife Ajayi, shared invaluable perspectives, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and igniting a renewed sense of purpose among attendees.

Beyond Digital: Reimagining Connection and Community

In an age dominated by screens and algorithms, a significant portion of the conversation revolved around the true meaning of “connection.” While technology offers unparalleled reach, the panelists passionately emphasized the importance of fostering genuine, human-centered relationships. It wasn’t about disavowing digital tools, but rather understanding their place within a broader ecosystem of human interaction.

Specifically, the panel highlighted:

• Connection beyond the internet: We touched on internet culture today and our collective need to “touch grass”. A smartphone and WiFi are not the only road to community. What matters more is a shared purpose, the magic of conversation, and networks of trust. True connection lives in mentorship, communities built on clear outcomes, and in all the spaces where our voices are heard, respected, and even cheered on.

This point resonated deeply with attendees, underscoring that while digital platforms facilitate initial contact, the bedrock of sustainable change lies in authentic engagement. Mentorship programs, collaborative projects with defined goals, and safe spaces where diverse opinions are valued are crucial for nurturing the next generation of leaders. It’s about building bridges of understanding and support that extend beyond the fleeting trends of online spaces, fostering resilient communities capable of collective action and mutual growth. The essence of true connection, it was argued, lies in shared vulnerability and shared vision.

From Local Action to Global Impact: Stories That Matter

The IYD 2025 event powerfully demonstrated that global relevance often begins with focused, local initiatives. Youth leaders presented inspiring examples of how they are tackling complex challenges right within their communities, directly contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The discussions illuminated:

• Local impact, global relevance: The panelists shared examples of youth-championed initiatives solving problems right where they live. These efforts address SDGs directly (education, decent work, gender equality, sustainability, and cybersecurity awareness). I focused on HackerNoon’s commitment to empowering the next generation of thought leaders—our AIESEC in Nigeria partnership being a great example. We understand all too well how often youth, the driving force behind any lasting change, are sidelined from the conversations directly affecting the future they’re supposed to inherit. And to combat this, we’re empowering the next generation with the tools and, more importantly, a platform to make their voices heard.

These local actions, whether establishing community gardens for food security (SDG 2), running digital literacy workshops for underprivileged youth (SDG 4), or advocating for gender pay equity (SDG 5), are not isolated incidents. They are interconnected threads forming a global tapestry of progress. The event emphasized that these grassroots efforts are not just addressing immediate needs but are also building models that can be replicated and scaled, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond their initial scope.

Crucially, the power of these initiatives is amplified through sharing. This led to another key takeaway:

• The Power of Story: Again and again, the importance of storytelling surfaced. When a young person shares their success, or even their failure, it serves as a contribution to a collective memory that guides others, shapes action, and ensures our narratives aren’t written for us by outsiders. This is why the work we’re doing at HackerNoon matters and why we connected with AIESEC in the first place. We give young people in Nigeria—and around the world—the chance to publish their own stories in their own words, to reach readers far beyond their immediate circles. In doing so, individual voices become part of a global conversation, and local actions gain the visibility and momentum they deserve.

Storytelling, therefore, isn’t just a communication tool; it’s a mechanism for empowerment, learning, and advocacy. It allows youth to own their narratives, inspire their peers, and attract the support needed to scale their impact. Platforms like HackerNoon are vital in this ecosystem, providing the infrastructure for these important stories to transcend geographical boundaries and resonate with a global audience, transforming individual experiences into universal lessons.

Challenges and the Power of Partnership

While the atmosphere was overwhelmingly optimistic, the discussions did not shy away from acknowledging the formidable hurdles young leaders often face.

• Challenges remain, but so do opportunities: We acknowledged the obstacles: lack of resources, unequal access to platforms or mentorship, sometimes even self-doubt. But the energy and ideas in the room confirmed that when systems (institutions, NGOs, private sector) partner with young people meaningfully, those barriers can be shifted.

These challenges are real – limited funding, lack of access to relevant training, or even the psychological barrier of imposter syndrome can deter promising initiatives. However, the resounding message from IYD 2025 was one of resilience and collaboration. The event underscored that these obstacles are not insurmountable when diverse stakeholders—educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, and private sector entities—commit to genuinely supporting and investing in youth-led projects. Meaningful partnerships provide not just financial aid but also mentorship, resources, and platforms that empower young people to overcome adversity and realize their full potential, proving that collective support is the key to unlocking latent potential.

Actionable Steps for Youth Leaders and Advocates

The IYD 2025 event was not just about discussion; it was a catalyst for action. Here are three key steps derived from the insights shared:

1. Cultivate Authentic Networks Beyond the Screen: While digital tools are useful, intentionally seek out and engage in real-world communities. Join local clubs, volunteer groups, or mentorship programs. Focus on building relationships based on shared purpose and trust. These connections provide not only support but also collaborative opportunities that are often richer and more sustainable than purely online interactions. Prioritize “touching grass” and engaging in face-to-face dialogues that foster genuine understanding and collective problem-solving.

2. Champion a Local SDG Initiative: Identify a challenge in your immediate community that aligns with one or more Sustainable Development Goals. Start small, gather like-minded individuals, and launch an initiative. Whether it’s a recycling program, a mentorship scheme for younger students, or a tech literacy workshop, every local effort contributes to global progress. Leverage available digital tools for planning and outreach, but always ground your efforts in direct community engagement to ensure genuine impact and resonance.

3. Share Your Story (Successes AND Failures): Your experiences are invaluable. Actively document and share your journey, challenges, and triumphs. Utilize platforms like HackerNoon to publish your articles, insights, or project updates. By sharing your unique narrative, you not only inspire others but also contribute to a collective knowledge base, fostering a culture of learning and ensuring that youth voices are central to the discourse shaping our shared future.

Real-World Example: “Tech for Teens” Initiative in Lagos

Consider the “Tech for Teens” initiative, co-founded by 19-year-old Adekunle and his peers in a bustling Lagos community. Recognizing a gap in digital literacy among underserved high school students, they started a weekend coding bootcamp in a local community center. Initially relying on borrowed laptops and volunteer instructors, their story of dedication and impact quickly spread. Adekunle published articles on HackerNoon detailing their progress, challenges, and the tangible results—students building simple websites and mobile apps. These stories caught the attention of local tech companies and NGOs, leading to donations of equipment, better training resources, and expansion into more centers. “Tech for Teens” not only addresses SDG 4 (Quality Education) by equipping youth with future-ready skills but also exemplifies how local action, powered by genuine connection and amplified through storytelling, can attract vital partnerships and scale its positive impact.

Conclusion: The Future Is Not Waiting

The AIESEC in Nigeria IYD 2025 event, “Youth in a Connected World,” was more than just a conference; it was a clarion call. It powerfully articulated that the youth of Nigeria, and indeed the world, are not passive observers of change, but its most dynamic agents. By prioritizing authentic connection, translating global goals into local actions, and understanding the transformative power of their own stories, young leaders are unequivocally proving that the future isn’t some distant prophecy – it is being forged right now, in their hands, with their voices, and through their unwavering commitment.

The collective efforts of institutions like AIESEC in Nigeria and platforms like HackerNoon are critical in creating an ecosystem where these young leaders can thrive. Many thanks to the AIESEC in Nigeria leadership for hosting such a vital event, and to the brilliant minds—Okonkwo Marycynthia, Angela Onyegbuna, and Boluwatife Ajayi —that shared the panel and enriched these necessary conversations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What was the central theme of AIESEC in Nigeria’s IYD 2025 event?

A: The central theme was “Youth in a Connected World,” focusing on how young leaders can leverage digital advancements and authentic human connections to drive sustainable development and global progress.

Q: How did the event emphasize “connection” beyond digital platforms?

A: Panelists stressed the importance of “touching grass” and fostering genuine human relationships through shared purpose, conversation, and trust networks, rather than solely relying on digital tools. Mentorship and community-building with clear outcomes were highlighted.

Q: What role does storytelling play in youth leadership, according to the event?

A: Storytelling is considered crucial for empowering youth to own their narratives, inspire peers, guide collective action, and attract support. Platforms like HackerNoon enable young people to share their experiences and contribute to a global conversation.

Q: What were some actionable steps suggested for youth leaders?

A: Key steps included cultivating authentic networks beyond screens, championing local SDG initiatives, and actively sharing their stories (both successes and failures) on platforms like HackerNoon to amplify impact and inspire others.

Q: How can institutions and private sectors best support youth initiatives?

A: The event highlighted that meaningful partnerships, where institutions, NGOs, and the private sector provide resources, mentorship, and platforms, are vital. This collaboration helps overcome obstacles like lack of funding or access, allowing youth to realize their full potential.