The Queen's Baton Relay just finished its tour of Africa. And by the time it has reached the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony, it will have travelled 190,000 km, visiting 70 nations and territories across 6 continents.
And travelling alongside the Baton is the 33Fifty Baton Book - a chance for 70 young people from across the Commonwealth to express their passions - to share their message with the 33Fifty participants, and the world.
Many of the messages are stark and heartfelt - for example - UNICEF child advocate Abu Bakar spoke about the violence he has witnessed against children and the need for more awareness in communities. At 15, he's already done a significant amount of work to educate parents on the importance of protecting children against violence.
"I urge the Commonwealth to use its power to end violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation of children across the world and especially in Africa! All children have the rights to be protected from all forms of violence and must be given a platform to speak and air out their views. If children are cared for and protected, they will grow up and become good citizens of their countries."
But what you may not know is that alongside the powerful symbolism of this global tour, there are also real tangible opportunities being created for young people in the Commonwealth.
33Fifty, the Commonwealth Youth Leadership Programme delivered by Common Purpose and the Royal Commonwealth Society is for inspirational young leaders aged 18-25.
Meeting in Glasgow and Edinburgh prior to the Commonwealth Games, participants will explore the cities, meeting local leaders from public, private and not-for-profit organisations as well as leaders from the wider Commonwealth gathered for Glasgow 2014.
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to collaborate with other young people from different cultures, to learn how to affect your communities in a positive way and to experience inspirational leadership advice in the cultural epicentre that is the Commonwealth Games.
