Somewhere along the way, young people were taught that life is a race. Finish school by a certain age. Have a clear plan early. Know what you want to be. Be successful quickly. Don’t mess up, and if you don’t hit those milestones on time?
You start feeling like you’ve failed, even when you’re still learning, still trying, still surviving.
During our workshops at Proudtobeme, we have met several young people who are incredibly creative, intelligent, and capable, but who don’t yet believe it. Not because they lack ability, but because they have spent too long comparing themselves to timelines that were never designed for them.
When you are navigating financial stress, family responsibilities, limited access to opportunities, or constant self-doubt, growth looks different. Progress looks quieter. Wins do not always get celebrated, and yet, young people keep going. They show up tired, try again after failing, carry expectations they didn’t choose, and learn resilience without even naming it.
The problem is not young people. The problem is how narrowly society defines success.
At Proudtobeme, we are committed to changing that conversation.
Success is not just about speed; it is about direction. It is about learning how to believe in yourself, speak up, handle setbacks, and keep going even when the path isn’t clear.
That is why our programmes focus not only on skills, digital literacy, employability, leadership, but also on confidence, emotional wellbeing, and understanding that your worth isn’t measured by how quickly you “figure life out.”
We have seen young people transform when they stop feeling rushed:
- When they hear, “You’re allowed to take your time.”
- When they realise they’re not the only ones struggling.
- When they understand that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
In this new year, we want every young person to hear this clearly:
You are not late. You are not failing. You are not behind. You are learning. You are growing, and your journey counts, even when it doesn’t look like anyone else’s.
This year, make it your resolution to honour your pace. Celebrate the small wins, embrace the learning moments, and give yourself permission to grow without rushing.
