BY NELILE NXUMALO (INTERN)
EZULWINI – Ellis Dlamini, a young man raised in a rural community where opportunities often feel out of reach for many young people, standing among world leaders and parliamentarians at an international assembly was a moment he never imagined possible.
On May 12, 2026, Dlamini, the pioneer and chairperson of Velezizweni Youth Cooperative, joined delegates from across the world at a historic parliamentary assembly officially opened by His Majesty King Mswati III through HRH Prince Majaha. The gathering brought together about 150 parliamentarians from 40 countries, regional organisations, international institutions, civil society leaders and strategic partners to discuss peace, governance, trade, investment, youth empowerment, climate resilience and multilateral cooperation.
Speaking during an interview with the media after the event, Dlamini said the experience gave him hope that rural youth are finally being recognised as important contributors to global development conversations.
He reflected on the realities faced by many young people in rural communities, including unemployment, limited access to technology and inadequate development opportunities. Dlamini said participating in the assembly showed him that youth voices can influence decisions that shape the future of their communities.
“Engaging with global leaders gives rural youth the confidence to believe that their ideas matter and that they can contribute towards sustainable development,” he said.
Dlamini explained that the assembly exposed young people to funding opportunities, mentorship programmes and networking platforms that can help transform rural communities. He added that workshops and strategic discussions allowed youth leaders to gain skills in advocacy, leadership and community development.
According to Dlamini, youth participation in such platforms also strengthens democracy by ensuring that young people are included in policy discussions affecting education, healthcare, digital infrastructure and economic growth.
He said the engagement has inspired him to continue advocating for resilient and sustainable rural communities while encouraging more young emaSwati to take part in international development platforms.
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