Rising with the tide

In southern Bangladesh, young workers like this one take to the water to harvest the seasonal water lilies (the country’s national flower) that grow in the area’s wetlands, to be sold at markets across the country.

For six to seven months of the year, the water lily season provides a vital source of income for young people in this region, many of whom start harvesting from an early age. It is informal, low-paid work, but with few formal employment options available locally, the seasonal trade offers a rare and accessible entry point into employment, sustaining families through the flood months.

Empowering young people with stable, rewarding job opportunities is vital for our sustainable economic future, particularly at a time when many developing countries are experiencing a surge in their youth populations.

When these millions of young people find secure, productive work, it is not only economic growth that follows, but thriving societies, powered by a cohort of engaged, financially independent young people who can support families and participate fully in their communities.

As technology increasingly displaces low- and medium-skilled roles once used as a first step into the workforce, it is a global challenge to ensure young people have access to relevant training and upskilling in line with labour market needs. Only then will they be equipped to move in step with their country's progress – and not be left behind by it.

This award-winning photograph is from ‘Water’, the ninth season of the Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Rashid al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA) Archive. The Climate Tribe has partnered with HIPA, leveraging the power of photography to inspire global awareness of sustainability and advance climate action.