A World Built on Memory and Vision: Bridging Generations for a Better Future

Blog post by Tafta CEO, Femada Shamam

“I have vision because my grandparents have memory.”

These profound words, spoken by a young climate justice activist from Samoa at the Commonwealth Peoples Forum, resonated deeply with me when my colleague Carmel recounted her experience at the event. They echo in my mind as I reflect on the multifaceted world of care and support for older persons—a realm that holds the keys to connection, continuity, and community.

The context of these words was the pursuit of climate justice, where the wisdom of the past meets the vision for a sustainable future. This intergenerational bond is not just important in the battle against climate change but is essential in building resilient, harmonious societies.

Sense of dignity and pride

Over the past month, I attended several annual general meetings with our residents at Tafta. One thing that struck me during these gatherings was the deep sense of dignity and pride that many residents showed when they spoke of Tafta as their home. I often heard the heartfelt words, “This is my home, and I love it here,” and I began to think about what that truly means. These expressions reminded me of the powerful memory that older generations hold—memories of belonging, pride of place, and a strong sense of community. Yet, I also thought about the dangers posed by the intergenerational disconnect that modernization can bring.

In this age of rapid change, where technology and evolving values sometimes pull us apart, it is more vital than ever to bridge the gap between youth and the elderly. The world needs young people with vision, but just as importantly, it needs older people with memory—memory that can be shared to inspire, teach, and guide.

More than a network of buildings

Tafta is more than just a network of buildings; it is a community woven together by relationships, connections, and a sense of belonging. It is a place where safety and security are paired with stories and legacies. But why does this matter? Because every vision of a better world is planted by those who carry the memory of the past—those who teach, nurture, and inspire the younger generations to dream bigger and act boldly.

Imagine a world where future generations could look back and say, “We have vision because they had memory.” Imagine if they could tell stories of how we created a world that respected and cherished all ages. This is not just an ideal but a possibility that starts with us, today. It begins with embracing older adults, listening to their stories, and integrating their experiences into the foundation of our vision for the future.

Let us strive to cultivate spaces where memory and vision coexist—where younger people are empowered to act with purpose, knowing that the roots of their aspirations are deeply embedded in the wisdom of those who came before them. Get involved, seek out the stories, build relationships, and together, we can create a future that respects the past and inspires tomorrow.