Engaging Youth Leadership in APAY Decision-Making Processes

Last Updated (Wednesday, 05 March 2025 22:06)

We believe in the power of youth leadership and participation, and we are proud to introduce the voices that shape our future. We are excited to introduce our youth leaders who are not only working to ensure youth perspectives are integrated into YMCA's Vision 2030, but are also actively driving meaningful change in their communities.

Introducing youth on APAY Board: Youth Leadership and Impact

Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

A: My name is Lin Chi Sheng (Sammy) from YMCA Taiwan. I’m an MBA graduate and currently working as a brand marketing specialist in Taiwan’s largest logistics real estate group. My profession extends beyond the corporate world—I am passionate about using my expertise to raise awareness of critical social issues that shape YMCA communities.

Q: What does YMCA mean to you?

A: YMCA has shaped my values through international programs and volunteering, teaching me principles like honesty, respect, care, and responsibility. A turning point in my journey was attending the Global Youth Conference in Osaka, where I saw firsthand how youth-led initiatives drive change in schools, communities, and national policies. That experience made me realize the power that young people have to influence public issues, which inspired me to become more involved.

Q: What is the significance of your work in YMCA?

A: I’m passionate about ensuring youth voices aren’t just heard but actively shape YMCA’s Vision 2030.

I am a youth on APAY Board. Being an APAY Board Member is an honor, but more importantly, it is a responsibility. My role bridges the gap between vision and execution, ensuring that youth perspectives are embedded in YMCA’s decision-making processes.

For my local and national involvement, a key focus is aligning Vision 2030 across local YMCAs and ensuring our strategic planning supports real impact, providing young leaders the tools they need to turn ideas into action. I also work on resource allocation and coordination, ensuring young leaders have the tools to bring ideas into action.

Q: What is your thought about youth leadership?

A: As youth leaders, we must redefine what leadership means. Leadership isn’t about holding a title; it’s about driving meaningful change. It’s about being proactive, identifying issues, and stepping up to create solutions. The YMCA movement is proof that youth can be a force for change.

Q. How do you think YMCA support youth leadership?

YMCA provides a platform for youth to lead and make a difference. Through YMCA, young people are given the opportunity to not only lead but to do so in a way that impacts their communities, organizations, and even national policies. For example, initiatives like the 5th Youth Assembly enable young leaders to tackle issues like mental health, sustainability, and regional stability. It’s not just about reflecting on the past—it’s about addressing present-day challenges and actively shaping the future.

Q: What are some of the pressing issues young people face today?

A: Indifference is one of the biggest challenges. We are living in a world of uncertainty, and with economic pressures, rising living costs, limited job opportunities, and regional instability, it’s easy for young people to disengage. But passivity won’t solve our problems. Change is tough, but it’s necessary. There, we should show our leadership.

Q: What message would you like to leave with other young people?

A: YMCA is more than an institution – it is a movement with a legacy of social impact. Now, it’s our turn to carry that forward as youth leaders.

We have the power to gather.

We have the power to speak.

We have the power to act.

The question is—will we step up and make a difference?

Prepared by Lin Chi Sheng, APAY Board member