Youth want to pursue their passion as a career

dubai - They want career to be beneficial for wider communities, finds study

Young people desire early independence and the opportunity to turn their passion into a sustainable career. They also want this career to be mutually beneficial for them and for their wider communities.

These were the results of a study conducted by Expo 2020 Dubai and market research firm YouGov after speaking to youth in the UAE and GCC on their hopes, ambitions and areas of interest, including hobbies, perspectives, role models and influencers.

Expo 2020 is bringing people together as part of its theme 'Connecting Minds, Creating the Future'. Youth engagement initiatives will provide skills, inspiration, connections and opportunities for young people so they can play a central role in creating a better future.

Manal Al Bayat, vice-president of engagement at Expo 2020 Dubai, said: "Expo 2020 will be a defining moment for the UAE and wider region. The opportunities, skills and experiences that the youth gain from the mega event will be an important contribution to Expo's legacy. Engaging the youth through targeted initiatives will empower them to develop into future leaders in line with the UAE's Vision 2020."

Al Bayat explained how Expo 2020 was aligned to the National Youth Dialogue. "Expo 2020's youth engagement initiatives respond to the aspirations of the youth. They provide opportunities for young people to network, build confidence and develop routes to future employment, which will in turn help them to achieve their independence and a vocation that is sustainable and beneficial to their communities."

Sources of information
The YouGov study sought the views of 1,140 male and female students and graduates between the ages of 16 and 25 who are GCC residents. It found that social media and online communication are the main sources of information for individuals of this demographic.

The study also found that the top aspirations of GCC youth in terms of family are to be able to raise their own household, be reliable in order to support it and create stability and peace of mind in the family environment. Youth wish to inspire positive change and to impact their communities through innovation, as well as to have a sustainable impact on the world.

In employment, youth seek equal opportunities for men and women; women are considering careers in traditionally more masculine fields such as aviation. They are in favour of achieving independence through internships and jobs, and would like to experience educational opportunities abroad and partake in a multicultural environment. The study showed a desire among youth to travel internationally.

- business@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai