Tiffany McLeggon | Responsibility lies with youth to bring about change

A country’s strength is measured not just by its leaders but by the willingness of its people to hold them accountable. When corruption, injustice, and poor governance go unchallenged, they thrive.

Every day, we hear about scandals, broken promises, and failures in governance that widen the gap between the privileged few and the struggling majority. We shake our heads at the news, vent our frustrations in private conversations, and then carry on as if this is simply the way things must be. But it does not have to be.

Corruption is not just a buzzword or an abstract concept, it has real, tangible effects on our lives. It is the reason why some schools still lack proper infrastructure while millions of taxpayer dollars disappear without accountability. It is why our healthcare system struggles, why justice seems selective, and why opportunities for young people often feel like a privilege rather than a right. Corruption siphons resources away from those who need them most and concentrates wealth and power in the hands of a few.

Yet, too often, we accept it as part of our reality. We see it happening and shrug, thinking, That’s just how things work in Jamaica. But if we accept corruption as normal, we are enabling the very system that keeps us disadvantaged. As young people, we must challenge this at every level, whether it’s by demanding transparency in government spending, pushing for stronger anti-corruption laws, or simply refusing to participate in corrupt practices in our own circles.

INJUSTICE MUST NOT GO UNCHALLENGED

Beyond corruption, injustice continues to erode our society. Whether it’s the mistreatment of the poor, gender-based violence, or police brutality, too many people in our country suffer in silence. Injustice thrives when those in power know that no one will hold them accountable.

It is not enough for us to simply be aware of these issues. Awareness without action changes nothing. We must be intentional about challenging systems of oppression, calling out discriminatory practices, and standing up for those who cannot fight for themselves. We must use every platform available to us, whether it’s social media, community organising, or protest, to demand change.

POOR GOVERNANCE IS A NATIONAL CRISIS

Jamaicans deserve leaders who are competent, accountable, and committed to national development – not just their own personal or political gain. Yet, time and time again, we see decisions being made that serve the interests of a few rather than the needs of the many.

Policies are implemented without proper consultation, communities are left behind, and too often, when the government fails, those in charge are not held responsible. This is not just a political issue; it is a crisis of leadership.

As young people, we must challenge the status quo. We cannot afford to be disengaged from the political process. Voting is not enough, we must stay involved beyond election day. We must scrutinise policies, attend community meetings, write letters, organise forums, and make our voices heard. If we do not hold our leaders accountable, they will have no reason to change.

POWER OF YOUTH ACTIVISM

History has shown us that young people have always been at the forefront of transformative movements. From the Civil Rights Movement in the United States to the fight against apartheid in South Africa, youth activism has played a critical role in challenging systems of oppression and bringing about real change.

Jamaica is no different. We have a legacy of young leaders who stood up for justice, and it is time for us to step into that role. We must reclaim our power as a generation, not just through protests, but through action. If we see a need in our community, let’s organise. If we recognise injustice, let’s expose it. If our voices are ignored, let’s make them so loud that they cannot be dismissed.

Social media has given us a powerful tool to mobilise, educate, and advocate. We have seen its impact globally, from the #MeToo movement to climate activism. We must use these platforms not just for entertainment but for empowerment. A single post, a single campaign, a single call to action can spark nationwide conversations and force leaders to respond.

CHANGE BEGINS WITH US

While it is easy to blame politicians and those in authority, accountability must begin with us. If we want integrity in leadership, we must model it in our own lives. If we want justice, we must be just in our own dealings. If we want a better Jamaica, we must commit to being better citizens.

This means refusing to participate in corruption at any level, whether it’s paying a bribe, falsifying documents, or turning a blind eye to wrongdoing. It means treating others with fairness, respecting the law, and being engaged in our communities.

It also means supporting those who are doing the right thing. When leaders, whether in politics, business, or civil society, demonstrate integrity, we must uplift them. Too often, those who try to bring change are discouraged by a lack of support. Let’s be the generation that changes that.

We cannot wait for someone else to come and fix Jamaica’s problems. If we want change, we must be the ones to drive it.

Jamaica’s future depends on us. The question is, will we rise to the challenge?

Tiffany McLeggon is a youth leader and communications professional. Send feedback to mcleggontiffany@gmail.com