Joshua Opey, an alumnus of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), has been elected as the Chairperson of the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC).
Opey becomes the first Ghanaian and only the second African to lead the council, which represents over 1.2 billion young people across the Commonwealth.
The elections, held in September 2024, were highly competitive, with 48 candidates vying for ten coveted seats on the council.
Opey’s election comes at a pivotal moment for the Commonwealth Youth Council, which plays a crucial role in voicing the concerns of young people and shaping policies that impact their futures.
As the council’s chairperson, Opey will work closely with leaders across the Commonwealth to ensure that young voices are not only heard but prioritised in development agendas.
His leadership is expected to inspire a new generation of youth leaders across the Commonwealth, driving forward the agenda for a more inclusive and equitable future.
The newly elected council members, who will serve from 2024 to 2026, are set to lead inclusive consultations, innovative projects, and dynamic events aimed at addressing the pressing issues faced by youth today.
The official installation ceremony will take place during the Commonwealth Youth Forum (CYF) 2024, which will be held in conjunction with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, Oceania, later this month.
“Opey’s election is not just a personal triumph but a source of pride for Ghana and UPSA,” said Ivy Heward-Mills, Director of the UPSA Centre for International Education and Collaboration.
“His journey reflects the university’s commitment to nurturing future leaders who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and beyond.”
