"A winner is a dreamer who never gives up."
Nelson Mandela
On International Youth Day 2024, UNICRI honors the remarkable endeavors of young heroes in Reggio Calabria, Italy, who are transforming abandoned neighborhoods once dominated by the mafia into vibrant communities. These youth are leading a vigorous charge to reclaim their homeland, making it a thriving beacon of community and hope.
In an inspiring display of solidarity, youth from the area gathered in an event dedicated to the enduring spirit of Nelson Mandela, co-organized by Urbana Associazione Promozione Sociale and Centro Sportivo Italiano (CSI) Reggio Calabria. This day was not only a tribute to Mandela but also a testament to the power of collective action. Young activists, community leaders, and residents came together, sharing experiences and forging bonds that promise to strengthen their community’s fabric.
Amidst this backdrop of unity, transformations have been profound. Neighborhoods once marked by silence and decay now buzz with the laughter of children playing in newly reclaimed parks and the cheer of crowds at restored soccer fields. Elders in the community now enjoy revived public spaces, where even the simplest fountain sparkles again, symbolizing the renewal of life and spirit in the area.
Nelson Mandela once said, "It always seems impossible until it’s done." Today, the youth of Reggio Calabria embody this sentiment, proving that with determination and togetherness, no challenge is too great. They are not just participants in this revival but are leading it, writing their own narratives of change and acting as beacons of hope and action.
As they continue to bridge gaps and unite their community, their message resonates clearly and powerfully: #ItsInYourHands. With every gesture of kindness and every collaborative project, they are not just dreaming of a better world, they are building it. Their journey is a vivid reminder that in the face of dreams for a better future, we are all equal, united by our shared humanity and common goals.
“I urge leaders around the world to advance youth participation at every level, establish youth consultative bodies, promote intergenerational dialogue and scale up funding opportunities for young people everywhere,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on the International Youth Day. “Together, let us draw on their energy and ideas to shape a more sustainable future for all.”
Let us all draw inspiration from these young leaders, as they remind us, in the words of Mandela, that "A winner is a dreamer who never gives up." The future is indeed in our hands, and together, we can reach for it with hope and determination.
A heartfelt thank you to Urbana Associazione Promozione Sociale, Centro Sportivo Italiano (CSI) Reggio Calabria, and all the other associations involved for making this transformation possible. We are profoundly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this inspiring journey, witnessing firsthand the power of community and youth in action."
