We, the youth, have a vast and important role in development and nation-building. Societies that have a large percentage of youth are strong ones. This is reflected in the tremendous energy of young people, which clearly contributes to driving and managing global matters and development projects. Climate change is an example.

It is fair to say that our generation is making many changes in a world that faces more profound challenges than any generation in many decades. Positive changes are being made to advance quality education, gender equality, health, the fight against poverty, measures to address climate change, as well as decent work and economic growth. This does not mean the previous generations have not endeavored to solve these and other problems. We just have a priceless opportunity now, and we are up to the challenge. We are the best-educated generation and the most technologically savvy. We have been exposed to more knowledge and perspectives than any other generation. We are more entrepreneurial and environmentally conscious.

However, youth continue to be disproportionately affected by the world’s challenges. They are three times more likely to be jobless than adults. Many lack basic literacy and numeracy skills that would allow them to find jobs, and obstacles to education remain for many millions of young girls. The world’s 1.2 billion young people must be bolstered by robust national and global policies and innovative solutions to face the many profound challenges.

We can live a new transformation that is driven and designed by youth, acting to avoid the worst effects of major issues and matters, and to achieve universal prosperity. The High Atlas Foundation is opening its doors for all young people around the world in order to expand this transformation–through volunteerism. Our volunteers make impacts in programs which promote women’s empowerment, capacity-building, culture, education, agriculture (Farmer-To-Farmer), and clean water. Joining in this journey will contribute to raising youths’ ambitions to accomplish sustainable development and ensure a most fulfilling future for our generation and those to follow.

For more information on how to volunteer with HAF, visit our website or email us at haf@highatlasfoundation.org.