11 Jul 24 World Youth Skills Day: How Mentoring Can Empower the Next Generation

Introduction To World Youth Skills Day

World Youth Skills Day is an annual event that aims to highlight the importance of equipping young people with the skills they may need for employment, entrepreneurship and development.

Celebrated on July 15th, this day brings together youth, educators and employers to highlight the importance of youth skills development and the role of mentoring in empowering the next generation.

In this blog post, we will explore the significance of World Youth Skills Day and discuss the impact of mentoring on youth skill development.

What is World Youth Skills Day?

World Youth Skills Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness about the importance of youth skills development. The day aims to highlight the critical need for marketable skills among young people and to recognise the role that educators and institutions play in providing quality training to youths.

It is celebrated globally with various events, workshops, and activities that focus on enhancing the skills of young people to ensure they can transition into the workforce effectively.

Why is World Youth Skills Day Celebrated?

World Youth Skills Day is celebrated to address and raise awareness of the challenges that young people may face in gaining access to employment and sustainable livelihoods.

With the global youth unemployment rate remaining high, it’s important we continue to invest in skill development initiatives that can bridge the gap between education and employment. The day serves as a platform in various ways, such as:

• Promoting the importance of technical and vocational education and training
• Encouraging partnerships by bringing together stakeholders from different sectors to collaborate on creating opportunities for youth skill development.
• Raising awareness by spreading the message about the importance of equipping youth with skills to meet the demands of the labour market.
• Celebrating achievements and the efforts of young people who have successfully acquired new skills and transitioned into successful careers.

How Mentoring Can Empower the Youth of Today

Mentoring is a powerful tool that can significantly impact the personal and professional development of young people. Here’s how mentoring can empower youth:

Providing Guidance and Support

Mentors provide valuable guidance and support, helping young people navigate their educational and career paths. This relationship can offer insights into industry trends, practical advice, and emotional support, which are crucial for young people trying to establish their careers.

Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

Having a mentor can boost a young person’s confidence and self-esteem. Mentors encourage mentees to step out of their comfort zones, take on new challenges, and believe in their abilities. This support is vital in helping young people realise their potential and pursue their goals – that could also include helping young people to get the confidence to learn new skills!

Enhancing Skills Development

Mentoring helps young people develop both hard and soft skills. Here are just a few of the specific skills that young people can learn through having the benefit of mentoring – 

Technical Skills: Depending on the mentor’s field, mentees can learn industry-specific technical skills that are essential for their career paths.

Communication Skills: Mentors teach effective communication, both verbal and written, which is critical for professional success.

Problem-Solving Skills: Mentors guide mentees through real-life challenges, helping them develop strong problem-solving abilities.

Leadership Skills: Through example and advice, mentors can help mentees cultivate leadership qualities.

Time Management: Mentors provide strategies for managing time effectively, and balancing work, study, and personal life.

Networking Skills: Mentors can help mentees build and navigate professional networks, an essential skill for career advancement.

The Role of Mentors in Skills Development

Mentors play a pivotal role in the development of these skills by setting clear goals – this involves helping mentees set achievable goals and creating action plans in order to reach them. You can read more about goal setting and the mentoring process in one of our previous articles.

Other ways in which mentors play a role in developing their mentees skills include –

• Providing Constructive Feedback: Offering regular feedback on performance and areas for improvement.
• Sharing Resources: Providing access to educational resources, professional networks, and learning opportunities.
• Modelling Behaviours: Demonstrating professional behaviours and attitudes that mentees can emulate.
• Encouraging Continuous Learning: Promoting a mindset of lifelong learning and self-improvement.

Conclusion

World Youth Skills Day is a significant observance that highlights the importance of equipping young people with the skills they need for the future.

Mentoring plays a crucial role in this process by providing guidance, support, and opportunities for personal and professional development. By focusing on skills development, mentors can help the next generation gain the tools they need to succeed in their careers and lives.

As we celebrate World Youth Skills Day, we also recognise the power of mentoring and youth skill development through strong, impactful mentoring relationships.