”My dreams for the future is to have my community move from where we are to a safer generation. And to also have a good life, good health and a good family.”
Tabitha, 21, Nairobi
”My family, friends and my own physical fitness make me feel safe. And the fact that I feel safe at school, because I go there every day.”
Tim, 15, Espoo
Together we build a safer world
Young people in Kenya and Finland say that the feeling of security is increased by:
- Trustworthy friends and safe adults
- Safe environment
- Life without discrimination or violence
- Trust in one’s capability and a good future
- Opportunity to influence one’s own life and community
When do you feel safe?
Pupils at Taksvärkki Global Citizens’ Schools and members of Kenyan youth associations answered the question in the spring of 2024.
”I feel safe and I can relax when I’m with my group members and we are talking.”
”My classmates, family members and parents make me feel safe. I can always talk to them about everything. And of course friends.
With friends I can be how I want to be. They don’t judge and they understand.”
Laura, 15, Oulu
”I would love to see youth who have hope in their future.”
Anthony, 20, Nairobi
”Something I would wish to inform the youth in Finland. The difference between us, in Kenya and them, we can say is the language, the country and the race. But when we are referred to as youth, we all fit into that category. Whatever challenges they encounter, is what we also encounter here.”
Dennis, 20, Nairobi
“There should be more investing in young people’s mental health. You can see that many people have problems with their mental health, but not everyone gets help.”
Sofia, 15, Hyvinkää
”Bullying is a big problem. Everyone would feel good and enjoy themselves more at school if they could be themselves.”
Adele, 13, Espoo
”Attention and just more questions asked about mental health. Just listen more and act upon what the kids say, rather than what adults think the kids are feeling.”
Aadit, 14, Espoo
“What makes me feel safe are the people who surround me. Undugu has created an opportunity for us with our association. So it makes me feel safe.“
Miriam, 17, Nairobi
“What makes me feel safe is my friends and family and that I always have somebody to talk to.”
Jiya, 14, Espoo
“I feel safe and accepted when I’m with my friends and we watch football.”
Robert, 21, Nairobi
“What makes me feel safe is family, friends and a safe atmosphere. Knowing that no one is going to say anything offensive.”
Aava, 13, Espoo
”I feel safe when when I’m talking with someone I trust. And when another person is interested in how I am.”
Maryann, 20, Nairobi
”Everyone should have a safe place where they can be, for example at home or with friends. That there is some safe place where you can always be.”
Aimi, 15, Oulu
“I wish the youth in the near future to know their rights. If there any issues come up they are aware on how to solve them.”
Moses, 20, Nairobi
“What makes me feel safe is knowing that I am accepted for who I am. And being able to stay at home safely and move safely.”
Matilda, 14, Hyvinkää
”I feel safe when I call my mum and hear that she is safe and my family is safe.”
Joseph, 19, Nairobi
”I feel safe when there is no harassment, or mental or physical violence.”
Vanni, 14, Oulu