Born into a world they did not create, many young people step up as volunteers, advocates, and entrepreneurs, dedicating themselves to protect the well-being of their planet, countries, and communities. Growing up in a different era, they have a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities of the present and their innovative thinking enables them to approach problems with creativity, open-mindedness and foresight.

Today, youth are at the forefront of movements advocating for social justice, environmental sustainability, and equality. The young generation has brought renewed energy to the concept of ethical leadership recognising it as a vital skill in forging a better tomorrow for all. Prioritizing human rights, fairness, and social justice in decision-making and actions, confronting systemic biases, championing diversity and inclusion, and creating inclusive spaces where every individual's contributions are valued, are key leadership skills that represent this generation’s aspirations.

Anjali ‘s story…

Anjali Borkhataria embodies the spirit of her generation. As a young and energetic fashion designer, she is conquering what surprisingly remains a male-dominated industry in Tanzania.

We may not solve all the world’s problems by selling clothes but we challenge you to consume differently and welcome you to our army.

What sets her apart is the social dimension of her work as she seeks to transform the industry into a more responsible and environmentally friendly one. In 2018, Anjali founded Ekantic, a modern-day gender-neutral fashion brand with a powerful purpose: "telling the untold stories of Africa to help bridge the gap between western and African cultures." Besides infusing her designs with cultural connotations, Anjali also uses her creative talent to highlight today’s growing concerns about the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry.

The choice of the name "EKANTIK," derived from Sanskrit, meaning "one who overcomes worldly desires," boldly conveys Anjali's call for sustainability in the fashion industry. For her, responsible consumption and equality lie at the heart of her mission, and she is outspoken about it:

Eli’s story…

Beyond their own skills, youth also need fair access to the labour market. We bear the responsibility of providing them with the opportunities they need to flourish. Quality education, vocational training, and mentorship are the vital stepping-stones that pave their way to success. Eli Matevska, a young legal officer skilled in recruitment management, from North Macedonia, highlights the importance of creating inclusive opportunities that bridge the gap between education and employment: