In the heart of Latin America, a region marked by historical inequities and systemic barriers, young people are stepping up to challenge traditional power structures. Too often, they are excluded from decision-making in politics, business, and education, relegated to roles of passive observers rather than active agents of change. Yet, they are not waiting for permission to lead. They are forging new paths, creating inclusive leadership models, and demanding recognition for their contributions. However, the ability to engage in leadership and professional development is not equally accessible. Voluntary and unpaid work, often seen as a stepping stone to experience, is largely reserved for privileged youth who have their basic needs met. Those from marginalized backgrounds who seek to improve their career prospects must be provided with full financial support to participate in such opportunities; otherwise, the cycle of exclusion and economic disparity continues. To truly create change for future generations, we must critically examine which leadership structures and institutions we are challenging. Many traditional hierarchies in politics, business, and education exclude young voices from decision-making processes. We must advocate for inclusive leadership models that allow young leaders to have a seat at the table, particularly in policymaking, corporate governance, and educational reforms.

This article delves into the multifaceted barriers to youth leadership based on my experience in Mexico and in global contexts, working with youth across Latin America as a teacher and project manager. The names used in this article are not real, but the experiences are, to respect the privacy of young people.

The Landscape of Youth Leadership in Mexico

Walking through the streets of Mérida, Yucatán, where I organize the Youth Summit for Peace, I see young people eager to contribute to society. However, many are held back by an insidious belief that their efforts are not valuable as professional experience unless tied to monetary gain. In many conversations I have had with my students, I hear them say, “I do not have any work experience,” and I answer, “But what about all your volunteer experience and internships?” They often reply, “But that is not paid.” This sentiment reflects a broader societal issue: the undervaluation of unpaid work, particularly volunteering and internships.

While recognizing the importance of voluntary work, it is also crucial to acknowledge that unpaid labor is not an option for everyone. Many young people, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, cannot afford to engage in unpaid work without financial compensation. The reality is that the ability to work without pay is a privilege. For those struggling to cover basic expenses, gaining professional experience should not come at the cost of financial insecurity. To truly provide equal opportunities, institutions and organizations must implement funding mechanisms, stipends, and scholarships to ensure that all young people—regardless of socioeconomic status—can access professional development and leadership training without financial burden.

Research confirms this phenomenon. Huda, Sabzalieva, and Heffernan (2019) highlight how societal perceptions shape youth leadership opportunities, often reinforcing systemic barriers that limit access for marginalized groups. A study by García et al. (2020) found that 60% of Latin American youth perceive volunteering as secondary unpaid work despite its proven role in fostering civic engagement and leadership skills. This undervaluation not only stifles participation but also perpetuates a sense of futility among young people, particularly those who cannot afford to participate in these experiences.

Barrier 1: The Myth of Futility

Leadership programs at institutions like Anahuac Mayab University often invited me to speak about “building a personal brand” or “how to improve a LinkedIn profile.” Despite their ongoing successful projects, many students struggle to articulate their experiences because they believe they “haven’t done anything.” This misconception stems from the idea that impact must be paid to be meaningful.

To counter this, we must shift the narrative. Recognizing the intrinsic value of initiatives that empower young leaders to persist despite challenges is key. However, we must also recognize that persistence alone is not enough if structural inequalities prevent certain groups from fully participating. Studies by Checkoway and Gutierrez (2006) demonstrate that when young people see their contributions as part of a larger societal impact, their engagement and resilience increase. Organizations and institutions also play a crucial role in reshaping this perception by acknowledging voluntary work in official certifications, professional development programs, and recruitment processes, while also ensuring that those without financial privilege can access these opportunities without economic hardship.

Barrier 2: Disconnect from Purpose

One of the most profound barriers to youth leadership is a lack of connection to purpose. In my sessions as a counselor, I have observed students involved in numerous activities, yet when asked why they participate, their responses are vague: “because I need to do something.” This disconnect stems from a lack of emphasis on the “why” behind actions. Drawing inspiration from Simon Sinek’s Start with Why (2009), I began incorporating purpose-driven exercises into workshops to help young leaders identify their motivations and align them with their actions. By linking their efforts to tangible goals and societal change, young leaders gain clarity and a sense of fulfilment in their work. However, finding purpose should not be a luxury afforded only to those with the financial stability to engage in unpaid activities. A truly equitable leadership ecosystem must support all youth in their pursuit of meaningful experiences, ensuring financial security as they build their careers.

Barrier 3: Challenges for Marginalized Groups

It is essential to highlight the unique challenges faced by young people with disabilities and those from marginalized communities. Many leadership programs, networking opportunities, and educational initiatives unintentionally exclude these groups due to financial, logistical, or structural barriers. If we have worked with them before, their experiences should be included to ensure a more comprehensive understanding of the systemic barriers that affect different youth groups. Providing accessible spaces, tailored mentorship, and financial support can create a more inclusive leadership landscape where all young people have a fair chance to thrive. Without financial aid, those from marginalized backgrounds may never have the opportunity to break into leadership roles, perpetuating cycles of exclusion and limiting social mobility.

A Vision for the Future

As I reflect on my journey, from organizing grassroots initiatives in Yucatán to representing Mexico in the Nobel Peace Laureates Summit and serving as a Youth Ambassador for Yucatán in sustainability and climate change, I am reminded of the resilience and creativity of Mexican and Latin American youth. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the changemakers of today. But leadership cannot remain a privilege—it must be a right accessible to all. By addressing the barriers outlined above, including the financial constraints that keep many from advancing, we can unlock their potential to drive meaningful change. Imagine a future where young people’s projects inspire nationwide movements for food security, indigenous rights, or other crucial topics that can reshape national policies. This vision is not utopian but achievable if we, as a society, commit to recognizing, financing, and supporting the value and purpose of youth leadership for all, not just for the privileged few.

The change we seek is a shift from hierarchical and exclusionary decision-making to participatory leadership that recognizes the value of youth contributions. However, participation alone is not enough—meaningful inclusion requires breaking down systemic financial barriers that disproportionately exclude youth from lower-income backgrounds. We envision a future where young people are not only consulted but actively shape policies and strategies, regardless of their socioeconomic status. This means breaking down systemic barriers that limit youth access to leadership roles and ensuring that diverse perspectives, particularly from marginalized communities, are genuinely heard and acted upon.

Biography

Itzel Pamela Pérez Gómez is a professional dedicated to sustainable development, education, and social impact projects. She is the founder of RUTICA, an initiative that promotes community-based tourism in the Yucatán Peninsula through educational experiences focused on social justice, cultural preservation, and environmental awareness. She has coordinated events such as the Youth Summit for Peace (yearly evento in Mérida, Yucatán) and model united nations MAYABMUN, bringing together hundreds of young people to discuss global crises, human rights, and climate action. As Regional Coordinator for SDSN Youth in Latin America, she organized the first student group meeting focused on the SDGs, connecting youth leaders from across the region. She has also taught courses in Mexico and Austria on global development, comparative politics and intercultural communication. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Sustainable Development and Strategic Analysis.

References

Huda, M., Sabzalieva, E., & Heffernan, T. (2019). Youth Leadership and the Role of Societal Perceptions in Latin America. Educational Research for Policy and Practice, 18(2), 157–175. DOI: 10.1007/s10671-018-9235-0

Checkoway, B., & Gutierrez, L. (2006). Youth Participation and Community Change: An Introduction. Journal of Community Practice, 14(1-2), 1–9. DOI: 10.1300/J125v14n01_01

García, J., Rodríguez, P., & Morales, A. (2020). Volunteering in Latin America: Perceptions, Challenges, and Opportunities. International Journal of Social Engagement, 12(3), 45–67.

Sinek, S. (2009). Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action. Portfolio.