Do you believe in the concept of youth is the hope of our nation? Can you answer yes immediately without bitterness in your heart? Could society itself prove it right or wrong? On the other hand, should we, people judge it?

From the definition of youth, it is an alternative word to the scientifically oriented adolescent. It is also another common term applied to a teen, teenager, young person or young people. Is it because you are a teenager that you are considered a youth? What does the word youth mean to us?

Robert Kennedy said that
"This world demands the qualities of youth: not a time of life but a state of mind, a temper of the will, a quality of imagination, a predominance of courage over timidity, of the appetite for adventure over the life of ease." - Robert Kennedy

Youth of today are exposed to the internet and the risks it poses. Technology has a great impact to those of young age. They spend most of their time surfing the internet, playing online games, chatting perhaps other unfavorable things. The impact of technology is great and useful yet it can also produce bad effects to the youth of today. I felt disappointed seeing other teenagers like me who are merely wasting their time away doing nothing. We can't ignore the fact that most of the prevalent issues today involve the youth. Instead of helping our society, they stand as liabilities and danger to our society. Some of the teenagers are involve with the so-called "gang". Gangs create a sense of family for youth from dysfunctional homes. Reasons for joining street gangs includes gaining a sense of identity, recognition, discipline, love, belonging, and money. In addition, we hear an issue of drug abuse which most of the users are youth. Will you feel happy? It is sad to know that the youth forgets their role in our society. Where are the youths now? Where are the hope of our nation?

If someone were to ask what youth really means to me, I would probably say that youth is a word to be describe a person who is responsible, industrious, diligence, optimistic, loyal, honest and most importantly, concerned with his/ her fellowmen. Youth must be a productive member of our society rather than being a burden. A responsible youth should always do what ought to be done.

Some youth today will say that they are still young and they can do better once they get older and are mature enough. A term we aptly call "happy-go-lucky". Well, that is a big mistake. It should not be this way. As youth, we must start building a foundation strengthened with values, education and faith in God while we are still young. Make use of our time discovering our skills, ability and try to open our mind in the real world. Give importance for what you have now. You have crucial time in your hands to make out your purpose in life is. When will you realize that being youth holds the key and an important part of your life? When you become an old man, having nothing but regrets?

Youth must be trained and educated so he/she can overcome difficulties and be an inspiring and good model of our society and country. Education serves as a tool which can help people escape the perils of violence, ignorance, poverty, and immorality. Youth is a power. Youth is the strength of our society. Every country should provide access to education to the youth. The progress of other countries stands promising when their people are productive than for those who don't have will always fall behind.

The importance of a youth somehow makes me aware of the things that I am and should be doing. I learned it from our MCI study forum. Honestly, in my (Muslim) culture, education isn't a high priority to finish. Some will even say that as long as you know how to write and how to read a little, that is okay. Girls from our culture don't enjoy much freedom. Some of these limitations are not having a relationship with other man who isn't Muslim or Muslim man is forbidden when it's not yet time. We're only allowed to have a relationship when it's the right time to get married. I understand their point but what makes me feel sad is that some parents let their child marry at a young age. In fact, in our culture, it is very common for a typical Muslim to marry at a young age. Even if the child is only 2 years of age, they are bounded by a fixed marriage between Muslim families. It sounds odd but it is true. Some practice it while some do not. This set-up is most likely to be arranged to rich Muslim families in an attempt to confine their wealth within their clan and another chosen rich Muslim family. However, some parents chooses fixed marriage for other reasons. In my tribe, Maranao, it is common to marry a second cousin.

I have been into this situation. Never did I expect that my relatives planned to set me up in a fixed marriage. The guy was 10 years older than me. I can't imagine them doing this to me. I was only 17 years old that time and a graduating high school student. I started to wonder when I noticed my relatives often visited and talked to my father. They told me that they can settle everything when I graduate. I felt so disappointed that time yet I never stop praying to God for guidance. Coincidentally, I was applying for the MCI scholarship program. My grandmother once talked to me and told me good things about that person. She said that he is a good person and can give me good future with which I could be contented. She also said that even if I finish my studies I would not be as good as the other Muslim women. She said I won't reach my goals and have the same fate of those who earned a degree in college. Out of disappointment from hearing what my grandmother told me, I vowed to myself that I'll prove them wrong. My determination helps me to be strong and to think positively. I show my father how determined I am. I also showed him that he still need me in his life to care for him and my younger siblings. I know that my father is kind and maybe other people just want to influence his mind. I am so lucky because my father rejected their offer. My father doesn't have any income to support me and my siblings which might pose a reason for my relatives to bribe him with money and give me away to a fixed marriage. Fortunately, I was chosen as a scholar of MCI. I am glad that God heard my prayers and He provided me the opportunity to pursue my college education. God had blessed me so much. I know that everything will be possible if you believe in yourself and sincerely wish for what you need in life.

As one of the youth, let us be a good example to one another. Youth must now act. Let us all change for the better. The success of our nation relies on us. Let's make a difference while we are still young. Do not waste your time in worthless things. Have the courage and determination to seek for a better future like what MCI gives me, a good education and values integration in my life.

I thank Minority Care International program for guiding me the right way, for opening my mind, for providing me education and for enriching my life. Thanks to the persons behind MCI program. For all the benefactors who never stop helping us, loving us and appreciating us for who we are. I realize how life is good because of your support and love. Thank you for sharing your life to me. Without you, I would not be here. I have learned so many things from you which helps me be a responsible person. You also shapes me to become better youth with a positive view in life. Many thanks MCI!!!!!!!!!(^_^)

Written by:
SARAH SULTAN
University of Mindanano
Junior, Bachelor of Science in Accountancy