The strongest careers are built on more than talent alone. They are shaped by the willingness to keep learning, embrace change, and grow with every challenge. As the world of work continues to evolve, skills have become the bridge between potential and opportunity, empowering individuals to turn ambition into meaningful impact.
This World Youth Skills Day 2026, we celebrate Generation Z – a generation bringing fresh perspectives, digital fluency, and a passion for continuous learning into the workplace. Their journey reminds us that investing in skills is one of the most powerful ways to prepare for the future.
Now, let’s hear from our three Gen Z as they share their thoughts on this year’s theme and what it means for the future of work.
Ra-ees Peeroo | Software Engineer
- How does the theme “Skills for a Shared Future” influence the way you collaborate, learn, and solve problems as a Software Engineer?
Skills for a Shared Future’ means building solutions that outlive the people who create them. My goal isn’t just to solve today’s problems but to leave behind clean systems, shared knowledge, and reusable solutions. That way, the next person can build on what’s already there instead of starting from zero.
- Why is it important to develop both technical and interpersonal skills, and how have they complemented each other in your career?
Technical skills help you build solutions, but interpersonal skills help you build trust. Throughout my career, developing both has enabled me to create reliable software, understand users’ needs, collaborate effectively across teams, and deliver solutions that provide real value. Together, they ensure I’m solving not only problems correctly but also the right problems.
- How has learning from or supporting others helped you grow professionally, and why is this important for building a shared future?
I have grown most by learning from others and supporting them in return. Teaching strengthens my own understanding while exposing me to different perspectives. A shared future is built through collaboration, where knowledge is shared openly so everyone can grow faster and achieve more together.
Suhaylah Sheik Codabux | Intern – Software Engineering
- What is one new skill you are learning during your internship?
One of the most valuable things I’m learning during this internship is working with technologies and tools used in a professional environment that go past what is typically taught at university. This experience has broadened my technical knowledge and given me a better understanding of industry practices.
Beyond the technical aspect, I’m also learning the importance of soft skills in the workplace, such as adapting quickly to new challenges, learning efficiently, and collaborating effectively with others.
- How can challenges help people build stronger skills?
I believe challenges are one of the best ways to learn. Every new task or unfamiliar technology encourages us to think differently, ask questions, and keep improving. While challenges can feel intimidating at first, they help build confidence, resilience, and the ability to adapt to change.
This internship has shown me that growth comes from stepping outside my comfort zone. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn something new, strengthen my skills, and become better prepared for the future.
Cheitraj Dhunnoo | Network & Systems Engineer
- How do you personally interpret the idea of building a “shared future” through skills and knowledge?
To me, building a shared future means equipping young people with the skills and knowledge to grow together, adapt to change, and contribute meaningfully to society. In the age of AI and digital transformation, access to digital skills, critical thinking, and responsible use of technology can help youth create opportunities, solve problems, and ensure that progress benefits communities as a whole, not just individuals.
- How do skills shape competitive advantage in the future of work?
Skills shape competitive advantage by helping individuals stay relevant, adaptable, and innovative in a rapidly changing world of work. As AI and digital technologies transform industries, technical skills such as digital literacy and AI awareness become essential. At the same time, human skills like creativity, communication, and problem-solving remain crucial. Those who combine digital expertise with adaptability and continuous learning will be better prepared to succeed and lead in the future workplace.
- If you had to summarise “Skills for a Shared Future” in one principle, what would it be?
One principle would be: “Learn not only to succeed alone, but to grow in ways that uplift others too. ”To me, this means skills should not only help young people build careers and adapt to the future of work, but also use their knowledge to support others, solve real problems, and contribute to society. In a world shaped by AI and digital change, skills should empower us not just to compete, but to collaborate and create progress for everyone.
MACCS is committed to empowering young people with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to shape a brighter future.
Happy World Youth Skills Day 2026!
