Young African leaders at a UNISA youth leadership forum call for a shift from symbolic representation to genuine decision-making power and economic ownership. Panellists argue that youth participation must go beyond consultations and visibility, and instead position young people as active architects of the continent’s future. The discussion focuses on how economic benefits, policy influence, and leadership roles should be structured to reflect young Africans as stakeholders rather than an afterthought. Speakers also raise concerns that existing development and governance approaches do not adequately address youth expectations for more direct influence over economic planning and opportunities. The forum is presented as a platform for emerging leaders to articulate demands for greater control over economic priorities affecting their communities and countries. Overall, the event highlights youth-led calls for stronger mechanisms that translate participation into real power within continental and institutional planning.