Youth Power Shines Bright at Juba’s Youth Market 2025 with Over 250 Young Entrepreneurs
By Denilson Deneki
The energy and optimism were palpable on Day 2 of the Youth Market Event 2025, a dynamic gathering that showcased the vibrant talent and entrepreneurial spirit of South Sudan’s youth. Held at the Youth Empowerment Hub in Juba, the two-day event drew more than 250 young entrepreneurs from across the city, demonstrating innovative ideas, handcrafted products, and digital solutions.
Organized by the Youth Empowerment Organization (YEO) in partnership with the Central Equatoria State Civil Society Network (CESCSN), and supported by AMREF Health Africa and Misereor, the event aims to foster youth-led development and advocacy. From June 27 to 28, participants engaged in exhibitions, networking sessions, and impactful discussions, highlighting their contributions across sectors such as agribusiness, fashion, cosmetics, and technology.
One of the event’s main features was a lively panel discussion on “Strengthening Youth Participation in Development and Decision-Making Spaces.” Moderated by Mr. Mborimbuko Simon Kalesto and Anikang Sasha, the session featured prominent voices including business consultant Mary Constatino Bii, renowned businessman Denis Edward, humanitarian volunteer Shamila Khaltuma, and emerging entrepreneur Ajah Janifer.
The panel addressed pressing challenges faced by young entrepreneurs—ranging from navigating regulatory hurdles to accessing funding—and underscored the importance of financial literacy, resilience, and government collaboration. “We can’t talk about development without youth at the center. This panel is a call to action — to listen, invest, and act,” one panelist emphasized.
YEO’s Executive Director Daniel Mwaka highlighted the importance of partnerships in nurturing youth entrepreneurship and announced upcoming dialogues with senior business leaders to further inspire and empower young changemakers through initiatives like Daniel’s Show.
Focus Areas of Youth Market 2025:
The event, designed as a platform for youth-led change, centered on critical issues such as:
– Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)
– Youth Participation in Governance
– Climate Action & Environmental Resilience
– Technological Innovation & Digital Solutions
– Peacebuilding and Livelihood Empowerment
**CESCSN’s Commitment to Youth Empowerment:**
As a dedicated advocate for peace and sustainable development, CESCSN reaffirmed its commitment to amplifying youth voices and creating inclusive platforms that foster grassroots impact.
With energy and purpose, Youth Market 2025 demonstrated that South Sudan’s youth are not just the future—they are the present, capable of driving meaningful change across the nation.
