Focus On The Next Generation

This essay is part of our New Year's series on what to expect in 2025, and can be downloaded as one compiled PDF for you to read at your leisure via the download form. Thank you

By Tessy Ojo CBE, Chief Executive at the Diana Award

As we approach 2025, young people worldwide face a complex and evolving landscape. The global economy continues to grapple with the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to economic uncertainties that disproportionately affect the youth. My argument is that employers and innovators need to step up in 2025 and help young people find focus and opportunities. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship.

In the United States, the inauguration of a new president brings both apprehension and, in some quarters, hope, regarding future policies impacting young generations. In the United Kingdom, the Government has introduced measures such as the “youth guarantee”, aiming to address unemployment and economic inactivity among 18-21-year-olds by offering training or apprenticeship opportunities.

However, these initiatives also come with challenges, including potential benefit cuts for non-compliance, highlighting the need for supportive structures to help young people.

In this challenging environment, it is imperative to encourage fresh perspectives and empower young people to actively contribute to society. Their unique insights and innovative ideas are crucial for addressing contemporary issues and fostering a more inclusive and dynamic community. However, many young individuals require additional support to realise their potential.

This is where organisations like The Diana Award play a pivotal role.

The Diana Award is committed to empowering young people through a range of transformative programmes designed to build resilience and address critical issues impacting their lives, from safeguarding mental wellbeing to tackling systemic and structural barriers that limit their potential. Another example is our Mentoring Programme which delivers impactful career skills development for individuals aged 14-18. By equipping young people with the tools to recognise their unique strengths and lived experiences as valuable assets, we inspire them to harness their voice, build their social capital and create meaningful change in their communities. Through initiatives such as leadership development, mentoring and social action projects, we foster a sense of agency, enabling young people to not only rewrite their own narratives but also challenge societal inequities.

This empowerment equips young people with the confidence, skills and networks they need to navigate and contribute effectively to the wider world, creating a ripple effect of positive change for future generations.

In the UK, we anticipate that 2025 will bring renewed efforts from the Government to amplify the voices of the next generation.

While the pursuit of economic growth remains a priority, it is essential to adopt a broader interpretation of 'growth' - one that encompasses the personal development and wellbeing of our young people. The Government's commitment to developing a National Youth Strategy, as announced by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, is a promising step toward supporting young individuals to succeed.

However, it is crucial that this strategy is backed by substantial investment and participation from all sectors to ensure its effectiveness.

Looking ahead to 2025, there are several opportunities that offer hope for young people. The Government's plans to transform youth centres through the Youth Investment Fund aim to provide enhanced facilities and resources, enabling more young individuals to access positive activities and opportunities.

The emphasis on mental health and well-being, exemplified by initiatives like The Diana Award's 'Decade of Youth Wellbeing,' is a vital step toward addressing the ongoing mental health crisis among young people.

This initiative promotes resilience and holistic development, emphasizing the need for a broad adoption across sectors - from government to the corporate world.

Prioritising the well-being of young people is not only an investment in their futures but also in building a strong, capable workforce for the years to come.

Equally, we urge the Government to continue supporting the UK's vibrant third sector, which plays a crucial role in assisting young people to overcome challenges and achieve their potential. Charities and non-profit organisations provide essential support systems, helping to bridge gaps and amplify the voices of those often overlooked. By ensuring these organisations have adequate resources and backing, we can cultivate an environment where diverse perspectives are heard, and every young person is given the opportunity to thrive.

As we navigate the complexities of 2025, it is more important than ever to listen to and amplify the voices of young people. By providing them with the support, resources and platforms they need, we can foster a generation that is resilient, innovative and ready to contribute positively to society. The Diana Award is dedicated to this mission, and we look forward to continuing our work alongside young people, the Government and the broader corporate community to create a brighter future for all.