This is for YOU, youth!

We are just a few days away from the elections. The power of our collective voices cannot be emphasised enough!

We are at a turning point, and young people’s active participation is more important than ever. South Africa is at a crossroads, and decisions made today will have long-term consequences for future generations.

Over the last couple of years, there’s been a noticeable political apathy and disconnecting trend amongst the youth regarding elections and everything associated with them, which poses a significant challenge to the country’s democratic processes and the future of its governance.

Here are some of the things that young people across the country had to say about the upcoming 2024 elections on 29th May:

Beauty (24): “I did register to vote for the upcoming elections. I don’t really know how I feel at the moment as we are always voting with hope for a change, yet things are getting worse day by day. I am even doubting that other parties will ever make a change if they win as the leading party is now doing what’s beneficial to them, not considering the nation as a whole.”

Nokubonga (22): “ I registered to vote, but I don’t think I will actually vote. The ANC is going to win anyways; what will my one vote change?”

Endinako (23): “I didn’t register because of the socio-economic issues we face; there hasn’t been change. Instead, they all want to rule and want to be given a chance making empty promises.”

Nhloboko (20): “I didn’t register to vote because, frankly, somehow, the ANC always wins, and that always means more problems for our nation. I felt hopeless. At this point, I’m just relying on elders to do the right thing and for our prayers to happen once the time is right.”

Trust me, I totally get it, and at one point or another, I’ve shared these exact sentiments. It’s increasingly discouraging seeing those in power abuse everything for their selfish reasons while those in need continue to suffer at their hands. Moreover, watching things get worse and nothing changing at all is infuriating. When does it all come to an end?

In this digital climate, many young people get information from social media; therefore, the potential benefits of increased youth participation through digital activism are immense.

What is digital activism? Online or digital activism refers to using technology, such as social media, email, and websites, to carry out activism. It enables people to raise awareness and share information on political and social change. Social media has provided a platform for young voices to be heard and amplified like never before.

Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have transformed into virtual spaces where ideas are exchanged, movements are formed, and change is accelerated. Social media has pushed the bounds of political participation, making it more accessible and inclusive to everyone.

Movements such as #FeesMustFall, #MeToo, and #BlackLivesMatter have demonstrated the power of social media in garnishing support and driving change.

Not only will you amplify your voice and the voices of others through engaging, but by dissecting leaders’ statements and policies online, we, as the youth, can hold politicians accountable in previously challenging ways.

Public scrutiny on social media can pressure leaders to act with greater transparency and responsibility. Most importantly, it can mobilise young people to vote and make a change!

The idea is to create an active citizenship culture in which we as young people can express ourselves and participate in decision-making processes. The youth vote is a force for transformational change in South Africa.

I read somewhere that staying quiet is not staying neutral. By withdrawing from participating in the elections, one effectively surrenders one’s right to impact the outcome.

Every vote counts, and every voice matters.

How will you make your voice heard in this pivotal election? Will you take part in digital activism to amplify your impact?