As an advocate for Human-Centered Design, it can sometimes be challenging to determine whether the efforts made in promoting this message are having an impact. This is where the component of community interest comes into play, giving you an appreciation of what can be achieved when communities work together—the skills and knowledge available, and the community power and how it positively manifests.

March was set to be climaxed by the Easter celebrations, and the preparations for these festivities gave me a sense of what is achievable. Having previously discussed the events that would be included—such as sports, a cleanup exercise, a health walk, a durbar, and a picnic—I showed interest in organizing the youth for the sporting events. My involvement extended to other events as well. Key takeaways include:

TEAMWORK:  Until now, all activities I participated in were generally individually led. Discussions of collaborations often ended in disputes and misunderstandings, mainly among the youth. It was refreshing to see them work hand in hand in all areas to ensure the success of the Easter celebrations.

COLLABORATION: Delving into the success of the sporting activities, it was heartening to see a connection between the youth, the elderly within the community, and even those in the diaspora. All ages were welcome to participate in both the sports and the talent show.

DEDICATION: The commitment from the youth throughout the organization process was evident. Some planned activities, such as stone painting, saw people working all morning until noon, then showing up in large numbers for sports training in the evening, before returning to complete the tasks afterward.

The message of sustainable development is one I’ve consistently pushed among the youth, both individually and in groups. Although the results of the sporting activities weren’t the best we could have achieved, I was pleased to learn that the youth are interested in keeping most of the activities from the festivities alive. During my stay, they want me to oversee the sports. As a sign of hope, communities have power, and when they decide to harness this power for their benefit, it is a beautiful thing to behold. Even more so, it is very refreshing that the youth, to whom the future belongs, are interested in spearheading this agenda.