14 - June - 2024
In an exciting development for youth leadership and advocacy within the Commonwealth, I am thrilled to announce the formation of the Commonwealth Disabled Youth Network. This initiative, born from the 2023-24 CDPF Youth Leadership Course, aims to unite and empower disabled youth across the Commonwealth, fostering a vibrant community dedicated to change and inclusivity.
The Genesis of the Youth Network
The journey began when our CDPF secretary, Dr. Richard Riser, tasked me with creating a social media group for course participants. Recognizing the potential for a broader impact, I proposed creating a WhatsApp group to facilitate seamless communication and accessibility. I laid out the reasons for its necessity and drafted comprehensive content and policies to govern the group, ensuring privacy and respectful interaction among members.
Initially, the WhatsApp group was intended for the current participants of the course. However, I saw an opportunity to expand it to include all youth who had undertaken the CDPF Youth Leadership Course. This vision quickly evolved into the idea of a dynamic youth network.
From WhatsApp Group to Youth Network
As the WhatsApp group administrator, I spearheaded the creation of a framework for a youth network that would not only facilitate communication but also drive activities and initiatives. I presented this proposal to the CDPF executive board, and it was met with enthusiastic approval.
Thus, the Commonwealth Disabled Youth Network was officially established. This network aims to be a proactive entity, engaging its members in various activities and initiatives that promote advocacy, leadership, and community support.
Laying the Foundation for Success
Following the establishment of the network, I successfully conducted the first elections for the committee team that will oversee its activities. As the Youth Coordinator, I work closely with the team to define the network's structure and registration process, ensuring it operates under the administration of the CDPF.
The CDPF Commonwealth Disabled Youth Network is a testament to the power of youth leadership and the importance of providing platforms for disabled youth to connect, collaborate, and create meaningful change. Our mission is to ignite change for disabled youth across the Commonwealth, fostering a supportive and empowering environment where our voices can be heard, and our potential can be realized.
A Future of Empowerment and Advocacy
The formation of the Commonwealth Disabled Youth Network marks the beginning of a new era for disabled youth within the Commonwealth. Under the guidance and administration of the CDPF, the network is poised to become a beacon of empowerment, advocating for the rights and inclusion of disabled individuals.
As the CDPF Youth Representative, I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished so far. This network is more than just a group; it is a movement dedicated to igniting change and fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for disabled youth across the Commonwealth. With the support of the CDPF and the active engagement of our members, I am confident that we will make a lasting impact on the lives of disabled youth and the broader community.
Kihembo Wilbert
CDPF Youth Representative