For those of you who were not able to make our International Youth Day Webinar we give some insights below on what was discussed.
The event gathered youth advocates from diverse corners of the globe, uniting to discuss avenues for empowering and connecting young individuals.
Marking a significant moment on August 14, 2023, Buya Nabie Bangura of Sierra Leone’s Youth Action Movement delivered a thought-provoking speech during the International Youth Day Online Webinar, an initiative organized by the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF).
Bangura was one of 6 speakers including Mariam Al Jabaly (Lebanon) who was instrumental in developing the concept and leading and hosting the Webinar. A huge thanks to Luisa Fernanda Guzman (Mexico) who spoke thoughtfully and powerfully about what Youth power means for her region and community. Joud Haj Nuiema from Syria – who was a semi finalist in the Grab the Mic Youth Competition last year showed her powerful film about gender based violence and spoke about what young people are doing and how they are using their power to fight this in Syria. Mohsin Baig from Pakistan facilitated this session speaking about how the region is encouraging young people to use their power. The enigmatic Anuki Premachandra, youth board member from Sri Lanka brought her own level of dynamism to the discussion – showing sharply how global inequities are impacting on young people around the world and finally Buya Nabie Bangura from Sierra Leone spoke about how young people can unleash their own power to more equitably connect their power. Bangura’s address, titled ‘How to Unleash Your Power,’ resonated deeply. He underscored the paramount importance of young people’s active engagement with the ever-evolving digital landscape and interconnected society. Encouraging youth to foster a culture of voicing their thoughts and embracing the possibilities of the digital era, he championed the notion of fearless self-expression. Moreover, Bangura passionately urged his peers to step into roles as advocates, recognizing their stakeholder status and substantial presence within the global community.
With an unwavering conviction, he implored young people to seize their rightful place and instigate transformative change in society. “As young individuals, we hold a universal stake as we constitute the majority. Let’s stand united, transcending cultural and diverse backgrounds. Our collective embrace can pave the way for a brighter future,”
His voice was not alone in echoing what young people want and need for their own development.
The group called upon their peers to assume the mantle of advocates, acknowledging their significant status and impactful presence within the global community. This unwavering conviction ignited a call to action, urging young individuals to claim their rightful positions and instigate transformative change across society.
“Collectively, as youth, we possess a universal stake as the majority. Let us stand united, transcending diverse backgrounds. Through our collective embrace, we illuminate a path toward a brighter future,”
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