Africa and Asia Drug Use Prevention Influencers 2024
September 2024 was not just any month; it was a remarkable chapter in the field of drug demand reduction. Picture this: from 8th to 13th September 2024, drug use prevention influencers from Africa and Asia converged in Kerala, India for a Training of Trainers on Engaging Youth in Prevention courtesy of the Colombo Plan Drug Advisory Programme.
Youth is one of the few words that wears many hats and its meaning shifts depending on the context. For this article, we will borrow from UNESCO's description of a transitional phase- from childhood to adulthood. There is more- The United Nations firms this up to the ages of 15 -24 years. A quick scroll through the internet reveals numerous programs designed for the youth, by the youth, and with the youth. Yet, despite all these well-meaning programs, young people remain the most vulnerable group, navigating drug use, disease, unemployment, and even radicalization.
As someone who has had the privilege of interacting with various prevention and treatment curricula, I can assure you that there is a treasure of evidence-based knowledge therein. Take Course 81 on the Universal Prevention Curriculum for Substance Use (UPC 81) for example. It provides foundational knowledge about substance use disorders and the science of prevention and shapes participants to be effective youth champions in their communities. For six days, we feasted on local delicacies courtesy of Chef Mahabir and his team at the J W Marriot Kochi but we knew our assignment. To grasp and appreciate the pivotal role youth play in establishing and sustaining drug use prevention initiatives. For the record, by the time we bid farewell to Kochi, we not only left with a few extra kilos but each with a certificate of Training of Trainers for Asia and Africa Engaging Youth in Prevention Curriculum.
Allow me to state that, it was not all cuisine sampling and celebrating the Onam holiday affair. Our six-day stay was complete with seven modules that delved into the science of prevention, the role of the youth, tools for executing prevention projects, being Prevention Influencers, and devising actionable implementation plans. Under the expert guidance of Ms. Angela Garcia and Prof. Grace Duka, the message was clear. The youth must be equipped for the challenges ahead. They must become adept problem solvers, voice their concerns, and most importantly step up as leaders in tackling the challenges faced.
Two modules stood out for me- Tools for Prevention Projects and Prevention Influencer. The goal of these two modules was first, to provide some basic knowledge and skills to conceptualize, implement, and manage projects related to substance use prevention. Second, to enhance our abilities as effective prevention influencers.
Now let us look at, “Who is a Prevention Influencer?” Simply put, young leaders who champion the cause of drug use prevention among their peers. They take a position on and influence alcohol, tobacco, and other substance use prevention policies, programs, services, and messages that improve the lives of other youth. These influencers can and do change lives. The truth is that the Prevention Influencer needs more than just knowledge about drug use prevention; they need solid project management skills in their suitcase or suitcase.
Allow me to bring the Prevention Influencer closer home. It has words like advocate, educator, role model, communicator, leader, promoter, collaborator- the list goes on. Each of these terms outlines the multifaceted roles of a Prevention Influencer; convincing, promoting, working with, representing, serving, helping, interacting, and supporting. What is even more exciting is that it lays out a four-step roadmap for the Prevention Influence. First, identify the issue at hand. Second, take a firm position on it. Third, craft your message. Finally, it’s time to take action. This module speaks to my heart. It is not just a collection of roles and responsibilities; it is a call to action that resonates deeply within me. As a substance use prevention advocate, I see myself in the words that define a Prevention Influencer—each term encapsulates the spirit of empowerment and connection that drives my work.
As we wrapped up our journey in Kerala, it was clear that UPC Course 81 was not just theory, it was a roadmap for turning ideas into action. As we returned to our communities, we took home extra kilos, new titles – Prevention Influencers and part of something bigger and specific for our youth. A huge thank you to Colombo Plan for making this training happen and a special shout out to Dichen Choden for the unwavering support and organization.