Building bridges

In our journey through life, we should be constantly building, activating, and delivering. Our goal should be to be the best versions of ourselves. When we merge our lights, a larger section of the world is illuminated, and the life experience is richer.

In this time of a global pandemic, many are hopeless, desperate, and perplexed. They are craving some semblance of a stable world; they are longing for freedom and the motivation to walk in their power. But the time it is taking for the scales of justice to be somewhat balanced is too long a wait for some. Given historical conflicts and disparities, the scales have never been balanced. But somehow in this time of hope and despair, it can appear that the elements that result in the imbalance are intensified. Therefore, we must make a choice to let our light overshadow the darkness. There is no global movement that unites us but that should not discourage us. Though we are fragmented, assigned groups and therefore set against each other, we must make conscious decisions to choose an enlightened path.

For these reasons, movements like Brand YOUth Global are important, not only because of what is happening globally but in Guyana. The culture is quickly changing here. With oil and the growing diversity, organisations that are about growth, empowering our youth and bridging the gaps in our society are needed.

Founded by Selwyn Collins, who is a New York-based Guyanese author, media consultant and producer, Brand YOUth Global is about developing communities and by extension the development of the country. Comprised of mostly young people, the organisation is not short of elders who can inspire the youth and advise them. Members of Brand YOUth are a key in the development of Guyana and fostering relationships that are not based on class, race, or culture.

Brand YOUth is uninterested with that which divides our society. Wherever we focus our energies, that is what hurts or uplifts us. The members of this organisation know that collaboration and building trust are key elements to developing any society.

Brand YOUth’s mission is about elevating mindsets and empowering individuals for sustainable socio-economic upliftment. This is accomplished through education, innovation and collaboration with both individuals and partner organisations. The vision is for a Guyana that is empowered and prosperous.

Brand YOUth is a diverse group. There are people making an impact in Technology, Arts, Entertainment, Education, Law, Health, Trading and Manufacturing, just to name a few. In 2019, Brand YOUth hosted its inaugural entrepreneurial awards, where 40 under 40 entrepreneurs were awarded for their outstanding work.

There is a universal truth – that we are more alike than dissimilar. However, we cannot know and understand each other if we are existing worlds apart. Part of Brand YOUth’s effort is to create initiatives that will foster unity. Events for bonding are an integral part of Brand YOUth, where members of the organisation share and learn from each other.

COVID-19 had the impact of widening the divide in this world. In some instances, we could not be in the presence of our loved ones. We could not hug each other to assure us that all would be well. Many of us have had to mourn alone or suppress our hurt because we had to be strong for those around us. Though we are constantly connected by technology, interpersonal experiences are the most powerful.

Brand YOUth’s latest event was a bonfire, held on November 19th at Isika/Blake. Isika/Blake is owned by philanthropist Stanley Ming and is located at Parika, East Bank Essequibo.

The bonfire was not only a bonding experience for members of Brand YOUth, but it was also an opportunity for the individual to reflect and recommit to the cause. It was described as relaxing, peaceful, and exciting by some members who attended. With the sound of drums creating an orchestra with the wind, a full moon reflecting on the calm waters of Isika/Blake, it was a phenomenal experience. There was storytelling. Stories about challenges and triumphs of the members of Brand YOUth were moving. There was laughter and tears because those who shared allowed themselves to be honest and vulnerable knowing that the members of the organisation are their brothers and sisters on the same mission to create a better Guyana.

As we are engrossed in the noise and deficiencies of the world, our minds are often heavy with fear, doom, and terror. We can forget that we must take time to stop, listen, purposely breathe, express love, and allow ourselves to be honest. We can also forget that there is peace in the world and happiness is a thread that keeps us sane.

Organisations like Brand YOUth must be applauded. Guyana needs this. With a visionary like Selwyn Collins – one who is genuine, passionate, and serious about making a difference, the possibilities are endless. Brand YOUth is library of brilliant minds, purpose driven and focused on creating a better Guyana. This organisation is about excellence and reminds us about who we are as a Guyanese people. We are more than where we were raised, what ethnic group we belong to or our political affiliation. At the core, we are branches evolved from the same tree. Our roots run deep. Too many in our society have placed too much emphasis on the differences rather than that which connects us.

Brand YOUth Global will encourage every member to continue to stand in their purpose. As the organisation continues to grow and make an impact in our society, the echo will be heard across the world. The baton will be passed from hand to hand and the bridges that are being built will link this generation and the next.