Your age is not a measure of your impact | Yasmine Mustapha Jibril | TEDxKubwa

Student leader Yasmine Mustapha Jibril argues that age does not determine a person's ability to lead, influence others or make a difference in society. Drawing on her time as Head Girl and more than 100 hours of community service, she describes how leadership starts with taking responsibility, seizing opportunities and acting on issues that matter. The talk urges young people to act without waiting for permission, and asks parents, educators and leaders to create room for young voices to take part and lead.

• Leadership begins with responsibility and initiative, not with age or titles
• Experience as Head Girl and over 100 hours of community service
• Encourages young people to act and invites adults to open opportunities for them

In this audacious TEDx talk, Yasmine Mustapha Jibril, a student leader and passionate youth advocate, challenges the belief that age determines one's ability to lead, influence others or make a meaningful difference in society. Drawing from her experience as a Head Girl and her commitment to community development, including over 100 hours of community service, Yasmine explores how leadership begins not with age, titles or recognition, but with the courage to take responsibility, embrace opportunities and act on what matters. Through her journey of leadership, teamwork and service, she highlights the importance of self-belief, initiative and the willingness to contribute, even when society considers you too young to make a difference. Her message challenges young people to stop waiting for permission, experience or adulthood before pursuing their ideas and contributing to their communities. At the same time, she invites parents, educators and leaders to recognise the potential of young voices and create opportunities for them to participate, lead and grow. At its heart, this talk is a reminder that meaningful impact is not reserved for those with decades of experience. It belongs to anyone willing to recognise a need, take action and make a difference. Yasmine is a student leader, community advocate, and emerging youth voice passionate about leadership, personal development, and youth empowerment. She has served as a Head Girl, gaining valuable experience in leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and community engagement. With over 100 hours of community service, she is committed to making a positive impact both within and beyond her school community. Yasmine is particularly passionate about inspiring young people to recognise their potential, embrace responsibility, and understand that age does not limit their ability to create meaningful change. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx