by Karen Abrams, MBA, AA, Doctoral Candidate
Young people of Guyana, I want to share with you a message that I often share with my own children. We are living in an extraordinary time. For the very first time in history, access to information, education, and opportunities is right at your fingertips. The internet, online courses, and inexpensive learning platforms have improved the level of the playing field, offering you tools to create solutions for even the biggest problems. You have within you the power to transform our country, build businesses, uplift communities, and shape your own future. But to do so, you must believe in yourselves, invest the time to educate yourselves, learn to work together, and commit to creating rather than competing. This is your time to rise. Here’s how you do it.
In a world where individual talent matters, teamwork matters even more. You don’t have to know everything yourself—when you collaborate, you multiply your skills and unlock the kind of magic that only a group can create. Gather your friends and like-minded peers. Meet regularly—once a week, if possible—and brainstorm ideas. Start small–ask yourselves what problem you can solve in your community, in your region, in your country, in the Caribbean, in South America, in North America, in the World? Don’t be afraid to dream big! How can you make things better for others, even with limited resources? If you have no idea of what’s happening in those parts of the world, go do the research and learn. This is not an overnight process, it might very well take you and your team 12 months to determine the problem for which you will craft a solution.
10 of you working together with your $500 USD cash grant, will soon have $5000. That may not sound like much, but it is the beginning of a business or an investment that can grow over time. You can start a side hustle, invest in agriculture, launch a creative project, or create an online service. The future belongs to those who think creatively, invest wisely, and take small but steady steps forward.
When You Feel Envy, Go Create Something
Envy is a common feeling, especially in the age of social media. But the next time you feel tempted to compare yourself to others, channel that energy into creation. Envy is just your heart telling you that you are capable of greatness too. When someone’s success bothers you, it’s a sign that you’re ready to step up and create something beautiful for yourself. Also, remember this, you do not need to compromise your worth or values to move forward. You are beautiful, talented, and worthy of every opportunity that comes your way. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise. You are enough—just as you are. Life moves fast. Today you’re 20 something and engaging in questionable behaviors, tomorrow you’re 50 something, wondering where time went and why you didn’t spend more of it adding real value to your life and preparing a better future for your children.
Believe in Something Greater, Cultivate Communication Skills
Faith matters. Whether you believe in God, a higher power, or the potential of humanity, having faith will sustain you when the road gets hard. Believing in something greater gives you strength, focus, and purpose. It reminds you that life is bigger than the struggles you face today. So lean into that faith and let it guide your actions.
Another essential tool for success is communication. It’s not enough to have good ideas—you need to be able to express them. Develop your ability to speak clearly, write effectively, and listen deeply. These are skills that will open doors, allowing you to connect with people, build networks, and inspire others. Start by practicing with the people around you. Engage in conversations not to win but to learn, grow, and connect.
Education Is Your Edge, Even if “Links” Still Matter
It’s no secret that in Guyana, having “links”—or personal connections—still plays a role in opening doors. But that’s no excuse to avoid learning. Education is your greatest advantage, and it will always pay off, no matter who you know. Get to know people before you need them—that way, your relationships are genuine, not transactional. When you contribute to your community and build relationships rooted in kindness, those links will form naturally.
The beauty of this moment is that education has become more accessible than ever. You no longer need to wait for someone to hand you an opportunity. Online courses, podcasts, books, and free resources are waiting for you to take advantage of them. Every new skill you learn is a seed that will grow into future opportunities.
Don’t wait for someone else to take the lead. Start making contributions to your community now, even if they seem small. Look for ways to solve problems, help others, or make something better. Your contribution today can inspire someone else tomorrow. Every act of kindness and leadership leaves a mark on the world.
This Is Your Time—Create, Collaborate, and Thrive
Young people of Guyana, I believe in you. You are the generation that will shape the future of this country. For the first time, you have the resources to dream beyond limits and create real change. Use what’s available—the internet, technology, education, and each other—to build the life you want and the country we all need. Work together. Build something meaningful. Believe in yourselves and in a higher power. When the road gets tough, keep going. Your potential is limitless, and the only thing standing in your way is the fear of starting. Don’t wait—this is your moment to rise.
