Ana Paula Ricalde Cortés

Social Investment Directorate
Monte de Piedad National

Surely you've heard the phrase "No one said saving the world was easy" in a movie, and if it hasn't been that specific phrase, maybe you've heard one very similar, especially in superhero movies. And the reality is like this, especially in the search for solutions to pressing social challenges such as the restitution and demand of human rights and in this case, access to decent working conditions for young people.

It is in this context that multi-actor participation emerges as a key element that allows young people to participate as active agents in the configuration of public policies and programs that affect their lives and this is what I have been able to observe in Atena, Shlomi or Jaqui, young activists. part of the Global Opportunity Youth Network in Mexico City (GOYN for its acronym in English) or Alonso who participates in the JuventusMx network and a few days ago I had the opportunity to share the space with him at a dialogue table for the construction of public policy proposals that will be delivered to the candidates for the head of government of my beloved CDMX. The participation of all of them in these spaces not only guarantees a genuine representation of their needs, but also enriches the processes of dialogue and reflection with current perspectives and authentic experiences, which, sometimes, from adult centrism we do not consider.

At the center of this multi-actor participation, or in the “source of energy” as Otto Scharmer, author of the Theory of the U and whom I highly recommend you read, would say, is the promotion of collaborative leadership, since horizontality and Inclusion, meaning that there is no rigid hierarchy among members of a group, but rather a recognition of diversity and equal voice, where each individual is valued for their contributions, and an environment of trust and mutual respect is promoted. and support.

When we promote spaces of this nature, working together with young people and adults, people from the private, public and social sectors and citizens, we contribute to closing generational gaps and having a deeper mutual understanding that allows the co-construction of more inclusive and sustainable solutions. An example of this is the “Youth X Entrepreneurship” platform launched by GOYN last year or the upcoming “Youth with Opportunities” festival.

The voice of young people, greatly enhanced by digital platforms and social media, has proven to be a powerful catalyst for public advocacy. Through these channels, young people can express their concerns, demand change and mobilize support quickly and effectively. Social networks not only amplify their voices, but also provide them with a space to share resources and strengthen movements around common causes and have also proven to be a channel of connection based on collective leadership.

It is essential that public advocacy projects recognize and value this fundamental role of young people in achieving their agendas, no matter what they are. By doing so, the social fabric is strengthened and progress is made towards a more just and equitable future for all generations.