Earlier this month we marked International Youth Day, a day intended to celebrate all the great achievements of young people across the world. From my own experiences, there have been no greater achievements for young people than when we collaborate and work as a co-operative network to aid one another in a bid for a better world.

Highlighting the word “International”, we should always acknowledge the achievements that are made across borders and across our wider society. There are no limitations to which success can be measured, especially when we aim to work together for a better future. This is especially highlighted by the aims of our own Co-operative Party.

Looking at our own history, of the 28 Rochdale Pioneers (noted for creating the first co-operative), 5 Pioneers were under the age of 30. A co-operative future has never been that of just older generations, but of a communal effort of all ages. With young people regularly playing vital roles in ensuring a brighter future for the many.

The National Youth Summit hosted by Co-operatives UK only a few weeks ago showed the successes of so many young people in the co-operative movement. Millions has been raised for charities and improvements to local communities was highlighted during the Summit. At the end of the Summit, Rylie Sweeney stated that, “when young people and adults work with each other, not around each other, we don’t just get better ideas, we get better systems.” Today, this is more important than ever and we must acknowledge that co-operatives work to ensure that we create the best future possible for all people and young people play such an important role in this.

As the Chair of the Co-operative Party Youth Committee, I want to emphasise that we are working towards a greater and mutually beneficial future for all. Young people are at the heart of change and we must always work to have our voices heard and our achievements seen. International Youth Day is a day to celebrate all the work that has been done and is being done by young people across the world. Always remember, one little step can spark one massive change.