Who are you becoming by proximity?

As we step into a new year, many young people in Eswatini are setting goals for 2026. Some want jobs. Others want to start businesses, return to school, or simply earn more income than they did last year. Yet one powerful question often goes unasked: Who are you becoming by proximity?

Proximity refers to the people, spaces and habits you surround yourself with every day. Over time, these shape your mindset, confidence and opportunities. If you spend most of your time around people who are not planning, neither learning nor trying, it becomes harder to do those things yourself. In contrast, being close to people who are learning new skills, applying for opportunities or building small businesses can raise your standards and ambitions.

In Eswatini, many young people are navigating unemployment, short-term contracts or informal work. It is easy to feel stuck. Yet employability is not only about having a certificate. It is about practical skills, attitude, networks and exposure.

Opportunities

A young person who attends skills workshops, career talks or mentorship sessions is more likely to hear about opportunities than one who stays disconnected. Volunteering, joining a youth group or learning a digital skill using a mobile phone already improves one’s chances of generating income. Proximity also applies to digital spaces. Who do you follow online? This question was inspired by a video I watched by Dr Shade Zahrai, whom I follow on YouTube. She highlights how the voices we listen to, even online, shape how we think, what we believe is possible and how we show up in our lives.  Are you learning from people who share insights on careers, entrepreneurship and personal growth, or consuming content that drains your motivation and time?

As you plan your year, be intentional. Choose environments that stretch you. Seek peers who challenge you to grow. Ask questions and show up consistently. Small daily choices can change your direction over time.

The Likusasa Letfu Youth Centre for Employability remains open in 2026 to support young people through career guidance and employability services. For support, email info@likusasa.org or call 79585564 / 78033230.

Who you become this year will be shaped by where you stand and who you stand with. Choose wisely!