"Beyond Blame: A Call To Action For Cameroon's Youth" - Prince K. NFOR

As we navigate the complexities of the current anglophone crisis in Cameroon, it's easy to get caught up in the challenges and uncertainties that surround us. However, as a self-improvement activist, youth empowerment advocate, and motivational speaker, I believe it's essential to shift our focus towards solutions and personal responsibility. As the great Nelson Mandela once said, "It always seems impossible until it's done." This sentiment resonates deeply when we consider the formidable challenges before us, urging us to look beyond the immediate difficulties.

In many of our colleges, universities and societies, I have witnessed a concerning trend: youngsters lacking focus, motivation, and a clear sense of direction. Many are more interested in distractions than self growth and academic pursuits, and their future seems uncertain. This lack of focus and determination is a recipe for stagnation, and it's alarming to see many young Cameroonians giving up on their dreams and aspirations. As Benjamin Franklin wisely stated, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." This underscores the critical importance of discipline and foresight in academic and personal endeavors.

Moreover, it's disheartening to see many youths succumbing to harmful distractions such as substance abuse, smoking, fornication ("unwanted pregnancies") and other detrimental behaviors that hinder their growth and development. These distractions not only affect their health but also their future prospects. Many believe they can indulge in these vices and still achieve success, but the reality is starkly different. Without proper education, skills, and a focus on their future, they risk being jobless and unprepared for the challenges ahead. Plato's timeless wisdom, "The first and best victory is to conquer self," reminds us that true success begins with overcoming internal struggles and detrimental habits.

The economy may be strong, but what we do for ourselves also matters. External factors can provide opportunities, but it's our individual efforts, resilience, and determination that ultimately shape our futures. Unfortunately, many of our youth are quick to blame external circumstances, such as their parents, the government or economy, for their lack of progress. However, the truth is, we are often the problems to our own solutions. Booker T. Washington's profound words, "Nothing ever comes to one that is worth having, except as a result of hard work," serve as a powerful reminder that personal initiative is paramount.

To the youth of Cameroon, I urge you to take responsibility for your life and your future. Don't let distractions and complacency hold you back. Instead, harness your potential, stay focused, and work towards achieving your goals. If there's no one to provide for you, work for yourself, learn a skill or do something that will improve your life. Take ownership of your education, your skills, and your future. Let's rise above the challenges and build a brighter future for ourselves and our community. Let's take ownership of our lives and our nation. Let's keep moving forward, together. In the spirit of empowerment, as quoted from Vince Lombardi, "The will to win, the desire to succeed, the urge to reach your full potential... these are the keys that will unlock the door to personal excellence."

Prince K. NFOR, Author of "Beyond Blame: A Call To Action For Cameroon's Youth."

Prince K. Nfor 

Self-improvement activist