Omam Esther, Executive Director of Reach Out Cameroon, has issued a strong call to young people to take ownership of their future and actively shape it—starting now.Speaking from experience and resilience, she acknowledged the difficult realities many young people face today: limited opportunities, economic pressure, and closed doors.
However, she emphasized that hardship does not equal impossibility.“History shows us that the greatest breakthroughs are born in seasons of pressure,” she said. “Difficult times do not mean impossible times.”Rejecting the narrative of despair, Omam Esther described today’s youth not as a lost generation, but as a rising one—full of potential, creativity, and power.
According to her, the future is not something to wait for, but something to build through daily choices, skills development, and courageous action.She urged young people to focus on learning practical skills, testing ideas, and starting small businesses—even with limited capital—guided by determination and integrity.“Resilience is not just about surviving,” she noted. “It is about building, even when conditions are not perfect.”Highlighting success stories from around the world, she pointed to innovation in agriculture, digital skills, creative industries, local processing, social entrepreneurship, and the green economy as viable pathways for sustainable development.
Wealth creation, she stressed, is not limited to big cities or foreign countries—it can begin right within local communities using available resources.Her message strongly encouraged self-reliance, collaboration, and initiative. Young people were advised to form small groups, cooperatives, learn trades, use technology wisely, and add value to what their communities already produce.“If one door closes, build another one,” she said. “Start where you are. Start small if you must—but start.”
Beyond economic empowerment, Omam Esther emphasized the importance of character, integrity, and personal discipline. She warned against destructive habits that can derail potential and urged young people to guard their minds, character, and peace.“No honest work is small,” she affirmed. “Every legitimate effort contributes to your dignity and to the strength of our nation.”She concluded with a message of belief and unity, reminding young people of their strength, creativity, and power over fear.
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today,” she said. “I believe in you.”
