By: Omar Silva | Editor/Publisher

National Perspective Belize

www.nationalperspectivebz.com

Belize Citty: Sunday 13th April 2025

In any functioning democracy, the inclusion of youth in the nation-building process is vital. Yet, such inclusion must be structured, purposeful, and guided by experience. Politics is not a plaything nor a popularity contest. It is serious business—charged with legislating, shaping national direction, and improving the lives of citizens. In a developing country like Belize—still grappling with poverty, economic stagnation, and the absence of an industrial base—leadership must be rooted in substance, foresight, and preparation.

While the call from youth coalition RISE Belize for a seat at the table within the Department of Youth Services deserves commendation for its initiative and civic interest, it must also be grounded in reality. Minister Anthony Mahler, who now holds the youth development portfolio, must bring not just good intentions but capable leadership—guided by tested frameworks, national planning, and political maturity.

The youth leaders—Ashley Longford and Marissa Cervantes—have expressed a sincere desire to be part of the change they wish to see. Their emphasis on collaboration, policy involvement, and moving beyond tokenism is refreshing. Their movement shows that today’s youth are not simply critics on the sidelines—they want to contribute. This desire for engagement is not only welcome—it is necessary.

However, the political apparatus is more than just engagement. It is policymaking, budgeting, legal reform, inter-ministerial coordination, and navigating a complex landscape of national priorities. That is where leadership from seasoned policymakers must guide, shape, and nurture these voices—transforming youthful energy into productive national programs. Minister Mahler, therefore, must not abandon his own role and vision to youth activism alone, but rather serve as a bridge between institutional mandates and youth representation.

What Belize lacks today is not voices—but direction. For too long, the Department of Youth Services has been shackled by administrative inefficiencies, overspending on salaries, and minimal programmatic impact. Youths, especially in marginalized communities, have seen few benefits. This shakeup by the Minister is overdue. But reform must be comprehensive—not reactive.

Youth empowerment must go beyond town halls and speeches. It must translate into viable apprenticeship programs, technical skill development, entrepreneurship support, mental health advocacy, and civic education. And while youth organizations must be heard, it is the responsibility of the Minister and his team to develop structured participatory models—not informal populist alliances.

To the young advocates of RISE Belize, I say: yes, rise. But rise with knowledge of governance. Rise with policy blueprints. Rise with a readiness to learn how to legislate, allocate, and administrate. To the Ministry: engage them meaningfully, but lead with vision, not reaction. We need youthful passion and political precision. One without the other leaves the nation adrift.