Neema Sheikh Abdikadir, a prominent youth advocate from Kenya, has been elected to the Commonwealth Youth Council’s (CYC) executive committee as the Vice Chairperson for Inclusion and Engagement for the 2024-2026 term. In this prestigious role, Abdikadir will lead initiatives aimed at representing the interests and inclusion of over 1.4 billion young people across the 56 member states of the Commonwealth.
Abdikadir’s appointment comes at a crucial time when inclusion and diversity are at the forefront of global youth agendas. With over half of the Commonwealth population aged under 30, her leadership in promoting inclusive policies will shape the opportunities and engagement strategies for young people from marginalized communities. Abdikadir has expressed her dedication to fostering a culture of empowerment and collaboration, particularly for underrepresented groups in education, employment, and civic participation.
Reflecting on her journey, Abdikadir attributes much of her success to her early involvement in student leadership, where she first grasped the transformative power of networks and collective action. “Since my days as a student leader, I’ve learned the value of people and networks in our lives,” she said. Her ability to build meaningful connections across sectors has made her a respected figure in youth activism, both in Kenya and internationally.
The Vice Chairperson-elect also extended her gratitude to Kenya’s Ministry of Youth and Sports for their consistent support throughout her campaign. “I want to thank the CS, PS, and the Ministry staff who supported my candidature with a nomination and guidance from time to time.” This backing highlights the Kenyan government’s commitment to developing youth leadership and ensuring the nation remains a key player on the global stage.
Abdikadir’s vision for her term is clear: to harness the collective potential of young people from diverse backgrounds and geographies to create a more inclusive and equitable Commonwealth. Her leadership in the CYC will focus on elevating the voices of youth who have historically been excluded from decision-making processes, ensuring that their concerns are addressed at the highest levels of governance within the Commonwealth.
Kenya’s representation in this influential body is a source of national pride, as Abdikadir promises to grow the global brand of her country. “Together, we shall continue to grow the brand of our beautiful Republic of Kenya across the world,” she noted, underscoring her mission to spotlight Kenya’s achievements and contributions to youth development on the international stage.
