A fixed centre of existence: Youth explore lifelong journey of service to humanity

A stream dedicated to young professionals has featured as part of a Perth youth conference, addressing the unique considerations faced by youth entering the next phase of their life and as they embark on a lifelong journey of service to humanity.   

Held in December 2024, the young professionals stream of the conference attracted 40 enthusiastic young people who discussed key life transitions including marriage and family life, pursuing excellence in one’s chosen field, and taking the first steps toward financial independence.

Through the study of stories about ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s life and His travels to the West, the youth were able to gain inspiration into how His unwavering Faith allowed Him to challenge societal norms with clarity and conviction.  

In its 29 December 2015 Message to the Baha’is of the world, the international governing body of the Faith, the Universal House of Justice, stated that: 

Participant Rodan Holland says with the above words in mind, conference participants identified three workplace concerns they wanted to explore more deeply together: the overemphasis on profit, toxic workplace cultures marked by gossip and excessive self-promotion and instant gratification.

“We also explored individual challenges we face: the complexities of what to prioritise with our limited time, maintaining a higher purpose in our work, and spiritual resilience,” he says. 

“Reflecting on how we cannot remain uninfluenced by these concerns in our environment, we then discussed how we can as individuals and collectively respond to these challenges.”

Rodan says the gathering fostered new friendships and strengthened existing bonds, leading to the decision to host monthly young professional gatherings. 

“The shared understanding of our challenges and the collective commitment to overcome them energized the group,” he says. 

“These ongoing meetings will aim to continue to strengthen our bonds while supporting our spiritual growth and ability to serve within our professional careers.” 

The youth conference is part of a broader state-wide initiative over the summer to mobilise, support, and intensify youth efforts in service during the holiday break. The conference, designed for youth aged 15 to 30, offered participants the chance to study the 2013 Youth Conference materials provided by the Universal House of Justice. 

Discussions explored themes such as the period of youth, early adolescence, fostering mutual support, community building, contributing to societal advancement, and encouraging meaningful engagement on how to build a better world. The arts played a central role, enriching the study process and fostering creativity. Evening plenaries became vibrant spaces where groups shared their artistic expressions—including short films, paintings, songs, posters, and more—created during the day.