Timor-Leste: Youth and Leadership

Weekend Reflection: Free Thinking

The young generation in Timor-Leste faces a critical juncture in their journey towards leadership. While some are content to remain bystanders, hiding in the shadow of established figures, others are eager to take the reins and forge their own path.

However, the current narrative in Timor-Leste perpetuates a culture of dependence on veteran leaders, who, although instrumental in the country’s past struggles, are no longer productive or effective in driving progress.

To truly empower the young generation and facilitate a change in leadership, Timor-Leste must shift its narrative to encourage youth to take ownership of their future. This requires:

1. Encouraging Young Political Leaders: Inspire a proactive approach in politics among the youth.
2. Promoting Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Allow young minds to flourish and contribute to economic growth.
3. Providing Quality Education and Training: Equip the youth with the necessary skills to succeed.
4. Creating Platforms for Youth Engagement: Ensure young voices are heard in politics and decision-making processes.
5. Fostering a Culture of Mentorship: Have experienced leaders guide and support young talent genuinely.
6. Celebrating and Recognizing Young Achievers: Inspire others by highlighting the successes of young leaders.

Changing the narrative is crucial to breaking the taboo of unwillingness to hand over power. Young leaders must be brave enough to take the initiative and drive change. By adopting this new narrative, Timor-Leste can:

1. Surface new faces in politics and potential change-makers.
2. Unleash the potential of its youth, driving progress and innovation.
3. Break free from the shackles of dependence on aging leaders.
4. Ensure a seamless transition of power, as young leaders are equipped to take the reins.
5. Foster a culture of sustainability, as youth bring fresh perspectives and energy to the forefront.

By taking their own initiatives and empowering themselves while detaching from the myth of old leadership, Timor-Leste’s young generation can truly move forward, unlocking the taboo of sacred past legacies and reaching a brighter future for all.