This can happen in the form of training sessions in leadership, conflict resolution skills, or organizational skills. The best way, however, is through participation with an adult mentor on the team. On the other hand, adults need to see what we can bring to the table, what are our talents are. Too often adults underestimate the abilities of youth. What I find most discouraging is when adults speak on behalf of children or youth and fail to give us a voice.
Many young people are very articulate.
They are usually the best spokespersons for their peers from a local to an international level. Young people can add a lot to a team, including a certain perspective from their own experience, great enthusiasm, idealism, and an infectious desire to do help humanity. By helping youth to develop the necessary skills to bring to the table, adults are giving them an opportunity to have a voice and to be leaders of today among their peers and great leaders of tomorrow. As our experiences working together develops, more intergenerational dialogues and collaboration will take place. When this happens both sides will benefit.