The Power Of One; Small actions that make a big difference in nation-building.

An individual can be a powerful change agent. It’s not enough to hope for a better tomorrow; nation-building is about building a common sense of purpose, a collective imagination of belongings.

Young individuals are not just the future of tomorrow; we are the present. According to research, young men and women constitute over 1.8 billion of the earth’s over 2 billion people. Young individuals are the most connected, most outspoken, and most open- minded generation the world would ever have.

Nations don’t just happen by historical accident, they are built by men and women with vision and resolve.

It’s quite obvious now that all citizens are supposed to be involved in building a nation. The involvement of one in nation-building is a must. It can start to feel like the challenges are overwhelming and you’re just too small and insignificant to do anything.
It’s easier to sit back and wait for others to act: those with more influence; big business; the Government. But even some of those powers-that-would-be can seem to lack the firepower or willpower, to make a dent.

Here are some small actions that can make a big difference in nation-building:

Volunteerism:

Volunteerism is a basic expression of human relationships. It is about people’s need to participate in their societies and to feel that they matter to others. I strongly believe that the social relationships intrinsic to volunteer work are critical to individual and community well-being. Offering time and skills to benefit the community.

Integrity even in small things:

Starting from not using office supplies for personal use. Been straightforward, not collecting bribes and standing on what’s right. Fighting for what’s right.

Environmental conservation:

Plant trees, reduce waste and promote sustainability. Simple things like not littering the place. Not throwing dirt all around. Keep your environment clean or anywhere you find yourself.

Community engagement:

Participate in local initiatives and events. Give yourself out to help people. This way, you can also learn. It helps boost your confidence in yourself and helps you discover things you do not know about yourself.

Education:

Share knowledge and skills with others. It also means helping people to learn how to do things and supporting them to think about what they learn.

Kindness and empathy:

Show compassion and understanding towards fellow citizens. The change increases when we are kind to each other. When we are being considerate towards other people.

Active citizenship:

Vote, attend public forums, and hold leaders accountable. When youth are at the age where they can vote, we should actively engage them to get their voter cards and be involved in the affairs of the nation.

Inclusivity and diversity:

Let’s recognize, celebrate, and value differences. It is a combination of our differences that shape our view of the world, our perspective, and our approach. People should feel valued and respected regardless of their characteristics or circumstances.

Support local businesses:

Boost local economy and entrepreneurship. When we are in the position to assist, we should assist, the position we are in isn’t just for us, it’s to raise others and also help them aim high so they can help others.

Remember, nation-building is a collective effort, and small actions can collectively make a significant impact. Every positive action counts!