Distinguished Bissas, esteemed community elders, members of the Bissa Youth Forum, and Bissa youth in general,
One year ago, on International Youth Day, we launched this vital organ of the Bissa Development Association. It was a momentous occasion, brimming with hope and ambition, as we set out to amplify the voices of our young people and create a platform for their growth and engagement.
As we mark this one-year milestone of the Bissa Youth Forum, we reflect on our journey guided by our inspiring motto: “Zekula M’ pagna”. These words have not only steered us through our inaugural year but also embody the very essence of our community’s spirit.
The theme of this year’s International Youth Day is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.” This resonates deeply with our mission. In today’s digital age, we must harness the power of technology to create sustainable solutions for our community’s challenges. The Bissa Youth Forum is committed to bridging the digital divide and ensuring our youth are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
As we look back on the past year, we must acknowledge both our achievements and the challenges we have faced. The establishment of the BYF was, in itself, a crucial accomplishment. We have fulfilled a key mandate of our constitution and created a space for youth participation within our community.
However, we must also be candid about the obstacles we have encountered. Our progress has been slower than anticipated, primarily due to financial constraints and the need to build a robust organisational structure. These challenges have limited our ability to implement many of the initiatives we envisioned at our launch.
Yet, we stand here today not discouraged, but resolute. The past year has been one of learning, laying foundations, and preparing for the future. We have gained valuable insights into the needs of our youth and the workings of our community. This knowledge will be invaluable as we forge ahead.
Our vision for the Bissa Youth Forum remains clear and steadfast. We aim to be a dynamic force for positive change within our community, empowering young people to take an active role in shaping our collective future. We seek to provide opportunities for personal and professional development, foster a sense of cultural identity and pride, and bridge the gap between generations.
The aims of the Bissa Youth Forum on Education and Employment to empower our youth wing remain paramount. We recognise that education is the cornerstone of progress and that meaningful employment is crucial for the economic empowerment of our young people. Our dedication to these goals is unyielding. We will continue to seek supports and initiatives that enhance educational opportunities and create pathways to employment for Bissa youth. By focusing on these key areas, we aim to equip our young people with the tools they need to build successful futures and contribute positively to our community’s development.
To achieve these goals, we need the support of our entire community. I call upon our elders to encourage their children and grandchildren to join the BYF. Your wisdom and guidance are invaluable to us, and your encouragement can help swell our ranks with enthusiastic young members.
To the youth of our community, I say this: the Bissa Youth Forum is your platform. It is a space where your voices can be heard, where your ideas can take shape, and where you can make a real difference. Join us, bring your energy and your dreams, and let us work together to build a brighter future for our community.
As we enter our second year, we have ambitious plans. We will focus on strengthening our financial organisation, expanding our membership base, and developing targeted programmes that address the real needs of our youth. We will work closely with the other organs of the BDA to ensure that the voice of youth is heard in all aspects of our community’s development.
The road ahead may be challenging, but I am confident that with your support and participation, we can overcome any obstacle. Let us use this anniversary not just as a moment of reflection, but as a renewed call to action. Together, we can make the Bissa Youth Forum a powerful force for positive change in our community.
In the spirit of “Bissa Woo Bissa”, let us unite our efforts and strengths.
May the Bissa Youth Forum continue to thrive and serve our community for generations to come, embodying the principles of Zekula [unity] and Pagna [strength] in all we do.
It is through our unity that we find our strength, and it is our collective strength that will propel us towards a brighter future.
Thank you all for your steadfast support over the past year. Here’s to many more years of growth, achievement, and youth empowerment. May the Bissa Youth Forum continue to be a beacon of hope and progress for our community.
Bissa Woo Bissa Bissam
Thank you, and may our unity always be our strength.
Abdul Malik Guerni
National Coordinator, Bissa Youth Forum