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A Message from HRH The Prince of Wales for International Youth Day

12th August 2022

Our Founder and President HRH The Prince of Wales has today marked International Youth Day, an occasion “profoundly close” to his heart. In a video message, His Royal Highness says that disruptions caused by the pandemic “have the potential to be devastating in their impact on young people’s wellbeing, and my Trust has found time and time again that poor mental health can become a significant obstacle when young people try to take their next step into employment”.

The video message comes as organisations around the world show their support for intergenerational solidarity this International Youth Day. HRH The Prince of Wales notes that “from the impact of a public health crisis, and now a cost-of-living challenge, to the threat of climate change, there has been much to erode the hope of the younger generation”.

HRH The Prince of Wales adds: “Today gives us all an opportunity to celebrate the incredible achievements of young people and, additionally, allows us to reflect on the impact that recent years have had on the younger generation. In terms of the adversities they have faced, it is remarkable to see the resilience and ambition young people continue to show in the face of unprecedented global challenges”.

The Prince’s Trust recently published new research into young people’s attitudes to the future of work.

Of the young people surveyed around the world, 48% say the pandemic has negatively impacted their mental health, 19% were unable to continue their studies, 26% could not continue their employment, and 44% say their income had been affected.

As the global economy evolves, new job opportunities are being created and young people are responding to this: around 7 in 10 young people surveyed highlighted an interest in green and digital jobs.

Commenting on the findings in the video message, HRH The Prince of Wales notes that “young people leaving education do not feel ready for the world of work.  They are calling for us all to play our part and help provide them with the skills they need for the jobs of the future, especially those in the green economy, as the threats of climate change and accelerating loss of biodiversity loom large and are felt acutely by our younger generation”.