The ten most outstanding young persons of the world were honoured in a colourful ceremony and reception on Tuesday November, 17 during the Junior Chamber International (JCI) World Congress in Hammamet Tunisia. Every year, JCI (Junior Chamber International) honours 10 young active citizens under 40 who live the spirit of the JCI Mission in extraordinary ways in the JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World (JCI TOYP) Program.
Whether through service, innovation, determination or revolutionary thinking, these young active citizens create positive change in their communities across the globe. JCI is a worldwide community of 200,000 young people ages 18 to 40 who share the belief that in order to create positive change, they must improve themselves and the world around them. Through projects in 5,000 communities in 115 countries, members seek targeted solutions to local problems, creating global impact.
We had short interview with a recipient of the award Mr. Kitso Masi, the Director of South East District Youth Empowerment League (SEDYEL) Botswana who was honoured under the category Personal Improvement and/ or Accomplishment. Describe the award ceremony? “Out of this World, The most beautiful thing that has ever happened to me” He narrated. “The limelight was amazing, and I can’t still imagine it happened with over 1000 people witnessing the event”. What does it mean to you personally and to SEDYEL? “I would like to use my favourite quote in this, ‘to whom much is given, much is required’”.
He continued to say, “This accomplishment was a turning point in my life. It symbolises my personal journey and accomplishment. When I look at my past and where I have come from, the journey seemed endless and was very tough to overcome the temptations, trials and challenges. For sure, with hard work and perseverance any one can reap in due time.” What is your objective now that you have won the award? “SEDYEL is my love; it is where my heart belongs. I am back motivated than ever to continue doing good and leading the other youth in the right path. Junior Chamber Botswana has approached me and kindly asked me to be their Ambassador in Botswana, and with humbleness I have accepted. I believe that my accomplishments and work shall continue to motivate other young people in my community and in Botswana.”
He continues to say that he wants to go to school and study Sports for Development. Message to the young people out there: “Enjoy your youth once it lasts. Go out there and get opportunities. Approach them with determination and in due time you shall reap. Imagine the possibilities; look at the positive aspect of life”. Bringing varied experience from their fields of expertise, the four judges of the 2009 JCI TOYP included UN Global Compact Executive Director Georg Kell, International Chamber of Commerce-World Chambers Federation Director Anthony Parkes, UN Foundation President Timothy E. Wirth and 2009 JCI President Jun Sup Shin. We wish Mr. Kitso Masi all the best in his future endeavour and share the joy of his accomplishment.