Every November Africa celebrates its most dynamic resource, its young people. But as we mark African Youth Month, I can’t help but reflect on what it truly means to be young in rural Africa, especially my community in Mwanza, Malawi.

As a CorpsAfrica Volunteer serving in Mwanza District, I have had the privilege of working with youth from different backgrounds globally, in cities, and now here in the rural heart of Malawi. What continues to surprise me is the stark difference in opportunities available to youth in rural communities compared to those in urban spaces.

In Nthache, my community, many boys and girls drop out of school early. Out of every twenty young people I meet, only about four are either running a small business or attending school. The rest wait for the farming season, which only happens once a year. For the remaining months, they stay at home without income, options or structured skills training.

Yet, what I see in them is not a lack of potential, but a lack of exposure. There’s curiosity in their eyes when we talk about entrepreneurship, excitement when they try something new, and a quiet hope when they realize that someone believes in their ability to do more.

This is why African Youth Month feels personal this year. It’s not just a celebration of potential; it’s a call to action. The opportunity to build the capacity of young people in communities like Nthache is enormous. We can start small. I have started by providing mentorship through in school clubs as well as youth clubs under the youth network, creating safe spaces like The Girls’ Club with Adolescent Girls and young women (agyw),  introducing hands on skills such as reusable sanitary pad making, agricultural training and practice, vocational training, environmental care, and leadership training with the support of the local leadership, parents and guardians.

Africa’s vision as captured in Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want speaks about inclusive growth and sustainable development. But this vision will remain incomplete if rural youth are left behind. They are the farmers, artisans, bakers, thinkers, and changemakers who will define our continent’s future if only given a chance.

So, as we celebrate African Youth Month, I’m reminded that true empowerment begins with proximity. Being present, listening, and helping youth unlock what’s already within them. Sometimes, all it takes is someone to say, “Let’s start with what we have.”

Because the Africa we want will be built by the youth we empower today one community at a time.