I have just returned to Cairo after a life-changing week I spent in New York City. During which I participated in the Clinton Global Initiative as a youth guest speaker. I spoke in a panel with President Clinton and other renowned world leaders, met with Dr. Rajiv Shah –I have to admit that his age combined with his extraordinary profile reinforced my belief that age should not be considered as a qualifying factor in any context,– engaged in inspiring conversations with global business leaders and social entrepreneurs, conducted a press interview, updated my knowledge throughout world-class thematic sessions that brought global pioneers to share ideas that are worth replication. Moreover, two days later I, along with other youth leaders from India, Australia, and the U.S. spoke in a panel moderated by Under Secretary of State for Democracy and Global Affairs Maria Otero at the U.S. Mission to the UN.
I keep hearing 3 bells ringing inside myself since I was back to Cairo; bells that produce moving and hopeful sounds. The first bell is for commitment; a commitment to bring about a radical change to the lives of marginalized youth in Egypt. No matter how much hardiness the journey may reveal. I will continue believing in young potentials, and expose underserved youth to enabling opportunities, that increase their access to livelihood, and their access to a life of dignity. I will continue to believe that it is their very basic right as it is my fair duty.
I believe if social entrepreneurs were able to make the case for channeling youth energies into community development, political participation, and economic development, then Egypt will pass its interim phase smoothly towards a promising future. I envision youth embracing entrepreneurial attitude, starting small businesses and mobilizing unused resources and creating jobs. I also envision youth engaged in the political life and lobbying for legislation that increases their representation at the different levels and promotes good governance. This can be achieved through sustained collaboration of a strong civil society, responsible private sector, and a transparent inclusive government.
The second bell is for capitalizing on what I have gained from the Clinton Global Initiative. First, I was able to connect with a number of heads of organizations, who represent a huge prospect for technical and financial support for the youth work I have been doing. Second, the boost of self-confidence and inspiration I gained has sharpened my aggressiveness to broaden the network of supporters, and manage a more diversified roundtable for youth development.
The third bell is for my regional role. As a USAID Peace Scholar, who have studied for one year and involved in community service in the U.S. along with other 46 youth leaders from 7 countries in the MENA region, I believe the Peace Scholarships Program should not be considered ended as the funding stopped. I will be organizing to start the Peace Scholarships Alumni Association, so we—as peace scholars—can engage in collaborative developmental efforts, and influence policy making across the region.
I believe it is just the beginning, and I see my dreams possible more than ever before.
