“Kids these days, they just grow up so fast.” You have probably already heard the phrase from your parents or other adults in your community. Well this is particularly true of most kids as they reach their early teenage years. Teens today are more informed and equipped than their parents and grandparents were in their days.

Today’s teens also have access to a lot more support from various national youth organizations and government institutions like the South African Youth Organization (SAYO) and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA). These things were unheard of in those days. Teens have a much wider variety of opportunities than ever before.

Vast amounts of information concerning the main issues that affect teens today are available almost everywhere. Issues like drugs and alcohol, sex and pregnancy, depression and suicide can be found almost anywhere; on the internet, in books and magazines at the local library, and even on television. Popular television shows like Rands with Sense that are concerned with financial matters are also incredibly helpful to teens today.

There are ludicrous amounts of youth development initiatives out there as well. They aim to help and encourage teens and young adults to become the best adults they can be. I don’t mean to sound harsh or anything, but actually they have no excuse for failure.

I mean, think about it. If our parents could achieve so much with so little, imagine what we could achieve if we just grab every opportunity we get with both hands. The opportunities are out there, we just need to look for them.