Pakistan is a country of contrasts—home to some of the brightest young minds but also plagued by challenges that stifle their potential. The youth of Pakistan, comprising over 63% of the population, are faced with overwhelming obstacles. From inadequate access to quality education and high unemployment rates to the lack of representation in decision-making, the situation is dire. These challenges are compounded by socio-economic disparities, gender inequality, and political instability, creating a perfect storm that threatens to undermine the future of the nation.
In the rural areas, children walk miles to attend schools that lack basic facilities. In urban centers, the youth grapple with the pressure of securing an education that is often beyond their financial reach. The dream of higher education is elusive for many, and those who do manage to secure it often find themselves without job opportunities. The system seems rigged against them, leaving countless young people disillusioned and frustrated.
The frustration of the youth is palpable. They are a generation that feels unheard, unrepresented, and undervalued. The streets of Pakistan echo with the cries of young people demanding change—change that seems slow to come, if it comes at all. It is in this environment of despair that the seeds of the Young Leaders Society Pakistan (YLS-P) were sown.
In early 2020, a small group of determined young leaders came together, united by a shared vision of empowering the youth and creating a platform for meaningful change. These individuals had seen firsthand the struggles of their peers—the lack of educational opportunities, the absence of a voice in governance, and the dire economic prospects. They knew that if change was to come, it had to be driven by the youth themselves.
What began as informal discussions soon evolved into a movement. The founding members of YLS-P were not just activists; they were visionaries who understood that true change required both grassroots activism and policy advocacy. They were driven by a sense of urgency, knowing that the future of their generation depended on the actions they took today.
On August 14, 2020, Pakistan’s Independence Day, YLS-P was officially formed. The date was symbolic—a reminder that just as the country had fought for its freedom decades ago, the youth of today must fight for their future. The founding members, including Daniyal Abdullah and Tabish Hamid, who were unanimously elected as the first President and General Secretary, respectively, knew that they had taken the first step on a long and challenging journey.
YLS-P was born out of necessity, but it quickly grew into a beacon of hope for many. The organization’s early days were marked by tireless efforts to establish regional chapters, launch awareness campaigns, and engage with policymakers. The founding members understood that to make a real impact, they had to reach out to the youth across the country, giving them the tools and opportunities to effect change in their own communities.
One of YLS-P’s earliest successes was the “Education for All” campaign, which sought to address the critical issue of access to quality education. Working closely with the Ministry of Education and other partners, YLS-P advocated for the implementation of the Single National Curriculum, ensuring that all children, regardless of their socio-economic background, had access to the same standard of education. This initiative was not just about education; it was about leveling the playing field and giving every child a fair chance at success.
But YLS-P’s work did not stop at education. Recognizing the intersectionality of the challenges faced by the youth, the organization also focused on issues such as climate change, digital literacy, and social inclusion. From tree planting drives and environmental restoration projects to digital literacy programs and the establishment of education centers for marginalized communities, YLS-P has consistently worked to address the multifaceted challenges facing Pakistan’s youth.
Today, YLS-P stands as a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives. What started as a response to the dire conditions facing Pakistan’s youth has grown into a movement that continues to advocate for change at every level—local, national, and international. The organization’s success is a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming challenges, hope and determination can lead to meaningful change.
As YLS-P looks to the future, the organization remains committed to its mission of empowering the youth of Pakistan. The challenges are many, but so too are the opportunities. With each new project, YLS-P reaffirms its belief that the youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today. And as long as there are young people who are willing to stand up, speak out, and take action, there is hope for a brighter future for Pakistan.
The story of YLS-P is one of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief that the youth hold the key to transforming their communities and their country. It is a story that continues to unfold, with each chapter written by the hands of young leaders who refuse to accept the status quo. In the words of the founders, “The youth of Pakistan are not just a statistic—they are the future, and the future begins now.”