Poverty, youth, and potential

By Halima Saadiah

Youth have always been a focal point in discussions, often seen as either the future of a nation or as inexperienced individuals who struggle to find their footing. Regardless of the perspective, the common issue remains: the challenges young people face, particularly in realising their potential.

History shows that young individuals can achieve great things, even when it seems impossible. The founding fathers of the United States, many in their 20s, laid the groundwork for a new nation. Similarly, Burkina Faso’s young leader, Ibrahim Traoré, exemplifies how youth can lead with vision and strength in today’s world.

Youth are vital to any country’s future. They drive the economy, serve as soldiers, and excel in sports, fostering international camaraderie. However, not all young people have the same opportunities to pursue their dreams due to the constraints of poverty. As of 2022, according to World Bank and World Vision, approximately 712 million people globally live in extreme poverty, defined as surviving on less than $2.15 per day. This staggering figure represents nearly 9% of the world’s population and marks an increase of 23 million people compared to 2019, highlighting the growing challenges faced by the world’s poorest.

Extreme poverty is not evenly distributed; it is predominantly concentrated in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, where about 40% of children live in these harsh conditions. In fact, nearly 90% of children in extreme poverty reside in either Sub-Saharan Africa or South Asia, regions where the prospects for escaping poverty are especially bleak. Beyond income poverty, the situation becomes even more dire when considering multidimensional poverty, which affects approximately 1.1 billion people worldwide, including 566 million children. This broader definition of poverty takes into account various factors that impact quality of life, such as education, health, and access to basic services, further complicating the path for young people to achieve their potential.

In Malaysia and around the world, many young people face the harsh reality of having to prioritise survival over ambition. They take on multiple jobs to support their families, often at the cost of their dreams. While we celebrate success stories of those who overcome these challenges, it’s crucial to recognise that these stories are the exception rather than the norm.

Many talented individuals come from difficult backgrounds, lacking basic necessities or emotional support. Pakistani javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, who recently won gold, is one such example. Despite his family’s struggles, he persevered, using his creativity to train with makeshift equipment. His success came after years of hard work, with support only arriving after he had already proven himself. His journey highlights the immense potential that could be unlocked if such talents had access to the resources they need from the start.

Similarly, in Palestine, young people like Hussam Al-Attar, who became known as the “Newton of Gaza” for his innovations in electrical equipment, showcase how poverty forces youth to find creative solutions to their problems. The resilience and resourcefulness of these young individuals in the face of extreme adversity underline the idea that difficult circumstances often push people to their limits, bringing out extraordinary talent.

Despite the incredible potential of youth, many are limited by their circumstances. While some have access to modern technology and education, others must navigate life with very little. Yet, even with limited resources, these young people have the energy and determination to change their fate and contribute to a better world.

Supporting young talents, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, could lead to incredible innovations and a brighter future for all. Programs like Malaysia’s RMT, which provides food to less fortunate students, show how small investments can lead to significant outcomes. By addressing their basic needs, we give these students the freedom to focus on their education and future ambitions.

Creating a better world requires recognising and nurturing the potential of all young people, especially those who face the greatest obstacles. By providing education, training, and support, we can unlock the talents of youth, empowering them to drive positive change and elevate the standard of living for everyone.

Youth are the catalysts for a better tomorrow. With the right support, they can overcome poverty and become the leaders, innovators, and change-makers the world needs.

The author is from the English Department, Faculty of Languages and Linguistics, Universiti Malaya.