Once all speakers were assembled on the stage, senior leaders offered brief reflections on the youth pitch. The first to speak was Ms. Takako Suzuki, MP House of Representative, who stressed the need for the change of parliament so that it can serve as a mirror of society consisting of men, women, youth, and seniors. Next, Mr. Ken Shibusawa, CEO, Shibusawa and Company, noted that while Japan faces an aging population, Africa’s youthfulness presents an opportunity for partnership and that events like this help bridge the gap between the regions, expressing his hope that Africa’s energy and growth can help inspire Japan’s future. Dr. Oussouby Sacko, Executive Director, Tokyo Metropolitan Public University, emphasized that it is time for seniors to have the courage to let young people lead their own future, rather than dictating it for them, through listening to youth and engaging in open dialogue. 

Co-creation across Borders and Generations 

The session moved to the panel session between youth speakers and senior speakers. Patoranking encouraged young people to break down barriers and work together to create positive change. Especially, he emphasized the importance of resilience and learning from failure, by sharing his story as a musician and advocate, with the difficult background of growing up in a slum of Nigeria and deciding to become a role model for others by giving hope to the hopeless and being the voice of the voiceless.   

When youth speakers were asked about what concrete steps, they want to see seniors take, Mr. Kpondehou reminded that true progress comes from co-creation between young people and senior leaders, not just among youth and urged seniors to be patient, give youth the chance to make mistakes and learn, and, most importantly, to offer mentorship and belief in their abilities, which is more valuable than simply providing resources. In addition, Ms. Yasumiba stressed the importance of not forgetting Japanese youth, noting that while Africa’s growing population is often highlighted, Japan’s younger generation also seeks to be heard. She also highlighted that many youths worldwide do not even have a chance to take on challenges, which should be treated as a top priority. 

To reflect on the ideal form of TICAD, Dr. Sacko highlighted the frustrations that young people are often consulted but not included in final decision-making for TICAD, especially on issues concerning their own future. He stressed the importance of giving place to young people and meeting each other. 

Envisioning the Future We Want to See  

The discussion then turned to how young people could be placed more at the center of decision-making. Mr. Kpondehou emphasized that young people should be active participants in decision-making processes, not just observers, with both Japanese and African youth having a seat at the table. He also stressed the importance of regular opportunities for youth from both regions to meet and exchange ideas, while noting the need to address visa challenges that prevent African youth from visiting Japan. 

In response, Ms. Suzuki reflected on TICAD’s essence as a platform to build the future together. She raised the problematic question of whether young people are truly represented or merely symbolic and pledged that she will ensure that all students have opportunities and that youth will not remain just symbols. Dr. Sacko emphasized that, like Japan did in its past, African countries and youth must have true ownership and responsibility in deciding their own future, pointing out that decisions about Africa have often been made by others, but this must change. In addition, Mr. Shibusawa noted that youth is not only about age but also mindset, and while young people have the right to a voice, this must be matched with responsibility, indicating that both youth and older generations share responsibility for shaping the future they want to see.