A Year of Youth Spotlight Series – Martinson Yeboah of Ghana

Please tell us a little bit about yourself

I’m Martinson Yeboah and I’m a 32-year-old Ghanaian who’s passionate about education, public policy and leadership. I currently work as an education consultant and manage The Organization for Policy and Leadership Development as an Executive Director. I have a Master’s in Research and Public Policy and a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from the University of Ghana.

Tell us about your event

I conceptualised the Model Commonwealth Summit to simulate the CHOGM and create a space for young people to engage in lively debates about the issues that affect them. From my experience, high-level international meetings and forums can sometimes be intimidating. The language used to disseminate information in treaties, protocols, and declarations – often feel distant and foreign to young people, particularly at the regional level. So, I had the unique idea to de-mystify such forums using the language that resonates with the next generation of young people who are active participants in shaping the future of the Commonwealth.

A total of 138 official delegates represented the Commonwealth member states attended the summit, with 14 participants hailing from seven Commonwealth countries, including Gabon, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, South Africa, the UK, and predominantly Ghana. Additionally, there were 46 observers and guest registrations, bringing the overall summit participation to approximately 200 delegates. This was a vibrant gathering of young changemakers, who were all committed to their individual and collective roles during the simulation summit.

My feedback suggests that the event was well received, and many young people are eagerly awaiting the next edition.

What inspired you to work on this particular issue?

My passion for public policy, diplomacy, and leadership development stems from my belief in the power of shared ideas. I’ve witnessed how effective leadership, informed by sound policy and driven by a commitment to service, can transform communities and nations.

On a personal note, engaging young people in diplomacy and policymaking can foster a new generation of leaders equipped to navigate the century’s challenges. Empowering young minds through these critical skills will lead to better governance, improved service delivery, and a more prosperous and equitable future for all.

Why should your country / community address this issue?

The Commonwealth is united by shared values of democracy, peace, and sustainable development. However, achieving these aspirations necessitates the active engagement of young people in my country and throughout the entire Commonwealth, especially since they make up the majority of its population.

The Model Commonwealth Summit addresses this critical need by providing a platform where young leaders can learn, connect, and aspire to promote the Commonwealth’s shared vision. The summit emphasizes the Commonwealth’s unique strengths and opportunities for the youth in my country, recognizing them as the future of its shared goals and aspirations.

What was the most memorable moment during the event/project?

The most memorable moment was witnessing delegates passionately debating issues and hearing them raise their voices passionately as they discussed solutions to pressing challenges in  Commonwealth. It was a testament to the power of young minds to engage in critical thinking, find common ground, and forge a path toward a brighter future for the Commonwealth.

What is your vision for this project?

My vision for the Model Commonwealth Summit is to ignite a global movement of young leaders empowered to participate meaningfully at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). This isn’t just about replicating a summit; it’s about creating a ripple effect reverberating through nations and empowering youth to drive positive change and values.

I envision the Commonwealth Secretariat providing a dedicated desk and supporting the expansion of this initiative nationally, regionally, and ultimately globally.

I want to be an active participant in raising a generation of young leaders equipped with the skills, knowledge, and passion to build a brighter future for the Commonwealth and the world.

What keeps you motivated?

I am motivated by the dynamism, creativity and energy of young people. I see them as the  creators of the future, ready to build a better world but often needing  mentorships and opportunities to do so.

Tell us an unusual fact or piece of trivia about yourself?

I really love movies. I don’t just watch them; I analyze them, dissect the storylines, and try to figure out what makes a scene work. It’s a bit of an obsession, to be honest.  Lately, it’s been making me think of going into film directing. I feel like a little voice in the back of my head that keeps whispering, “Martinson! You should be making movies!” We’ll see if that voice gets any louder.

What is your favourite quote? Why?

My favorite quote is “I am the righteousness of God in Christ,” found in 2 Corinthians 5:21. It resonates deeply with me because it speaks to a core truth about my faith and my identity. This verse reminds me that my righteousness doesn’t come from my own efforts or achievements, but from God’s grace and love poured out through Christ.

What youth issue should be a priority for the Commonwealth Youth Programme and why?

The Commonwealth Youth Programme should prioritise the empowerment of young leaders to tackle community initiatives. Issues like inequalities and other vulnerabilities affect families and young people, impacting their livelihoods, futures, and access to essential resources.

Also, I think that the Commonwealth should review the current age limit for youth participation, which is set below 30. Extending this limit to 35 would broaden the scope of engagement and opportunities, recognising that young people continue to face critical challenges and contribute meaningfully to society even after their 30th birthday.