In an age of endless content and digital noise, one might assume that the youth have more opportunities than ever to be heard. Yet ironically, their most authentic voices often go unnoticed, buried beneath filters, trends, and expectations. As someone who has spent over a decade working with young people—from university lecture halls in Birmingham to youth summits in Abu Dhabi—I’ve come to realize a powerful truth: when we empower youth to tell their stories, we don’t just shape better individuals—we reshape society.
Storytelling, when practiced with intention, becomes more than performance. It becomes a form of leadership. It fosters empathy, identity, and civic engagement. I’ve witnessed young Emiratis stand on stage and narrate how a grandmother’s wisdom guided their career choices. I’ve heard British teens share how immigration shaped their sense of belonging. In each case, the audience didn't just listen—they felt something. They connected. And that is where real discourse begins.
During my early years as a motivational speaker for the UAE Ministry of Youth Affairs, I often encouraged students to see storytelling not just as a tool, but as a responsibility. A well-told story can challenge stereotypes, bridge divides, and inspire change. In our workshops, students didn't simply learn how to speak—they learned how to be heard.
And the change isn't theoretical. At Eloquence Academy in London, which I founded in 2019, we've mentored dozens of young speakers who’ve gone on to lead community initiatives, advocate for social causes, and even deliver TEDx talks. These are not just public speaking victories—they are cultural shifts initiated by the courage of young voices.
But let me be clear: youth don’t need to be taught what to say. They need to be given permission to speak their truth—and the space to do it safely. That’s why we must create more storytelling platforms in schools, universities, and local communities. Not just debate clubs or talent shows, but storytelling circles—spaces where vulnerability is strength and every voice matters.
As someone who straddles both Emirati and British cultures, I know firsthand the impact of being heard in spaces where you once felt invisible. My mission is simple but urgent: to foster a global culture where the next generation doesn’t just inherit a microphone, but knows exactly how to use it with purpose, clarity, and compassion.
The youth of today are not waiting to become leaders—they already are. All they need is the stage. And a story that only they can tell.
About the Author:
Mohammad Tabrizian is a public speaker, writer, and founder of Eloquence Academy with dual residency in the UAE and the UK. Fluent in English, Arabic, and Farsi, he specializes in cross-cultural communication and the power of spoken word. Through his books, lectures, and podcast Voices Beyond Borders, Mohammad continues to champion unheard voices—particularly youth, women, and marginalized communities—across classrooms, boardrooms, and beyond.
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