Youth at the Forefront of Global Transformation - Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event
The Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event, held in Brussels in October 2024, brought together youth leaders, policymakers, and global stakeholders, including European Union officials, to address critical issues such as sustainable development, digital transformation, and climate resilience; all focused on empowering young voices in shaping international policy.
This event was a key platform for fostering collaboration between young people and global institutions, aimed at empowering youth voices in international decision-making. By engaging youth in shaping the future of global policies, the event provided a unique opportunity to showcase how young leaders are driving change on the world stage.
As an Emerging Leader Representative for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, I have the great privilege of sitting on the Global Youth Mobilization (GYM) board as a youth representative – an initiative of the Big Six youth organisations. In attending this event, it served as a powerful reminder of how young people are central to the global transformation in policy impacting young people. It was an inspiring experience, full of critical discussions, innovative ideas, and practical solutions for a more inclusive, green, and sustainable future.
Reflections: Youth Leadership on the Global Stage
The experience at the Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event has reaffirmed my belief, and many of those in attendance, that youth-led change is not just the future—it is happening now. The event highlighted how crucial youth are in driving forward global priorities, from climate resilience to digital innovation. As a representative of both The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and the GYM, there was a deep sense of responsibility to ensure that these conversations are continued in local and global networks.
The most striking takeaway was the acknowledgment from leaders that youth voices are vital to achieving a sustainable and equitable world. The work being done through initiatives like the Youth Empowerment Fund demonstrates the impact young people can have when empowered and supported.
Engaging with Global Leaders at the Global Gateway
As a GYM youth board representative, there were engaging discussions centered on how young people can play a key role in building a more inclusive, green, and sustainable future. One of the key highlights was participating in high-level dialogues with the EU Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, and the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, Felipe Paullier. These discussions explored practical ways to foster greater youth engagement globally, particularly in areas like climate action, digital transformation, and equitable opportunities. It was inspiring to see policymakers actively seek the insights of young people, ensuring that the next generation is central to decision-making processes.
Presenting the Youth Empowerment Fund: A Milestone Moment
It was a privilege presenting the Youth Empowerment Fund (YEF) with one of the six youth representatives of the Big Six youth organizations. This initiative is specifically designed to provide young people with the resources and skills necessary to drive positive change in their communities. From climate advocacy to youth-led entrepreneurship, the YEF exemplifies how targeted funding, and support can amplify youth-led solutions for some of the world’s most pressing issues.
The CEO, Carlos Sanvee, delivered a captivating message during the panel session stating: “It is not risky working with young people; rather, it is risky not working with young people. The GYM is about providing ownership to young people—to design their programs, with young people in governance, and young people to decide who gets the funds.” This powerful statement perfectly encapsulates the ethos of what I’ve come to know of GYM in my capacity as a youth representative board member.
Youth-Driven Climate Action and Innovation
“Pioneering Climate Action Through Foresight” was another key highlight. This interactive workshop allowed young participants to develop future climate scenarios using the EU’s Youth4Foresight Toolkit. Participants worked collaboratively to analyse potential climate risks and brainstorm innovative solutions that could help build more resilient communities.
Another standout session, “Making Waves: Engaging with EU Institutions and Amplifying Youth Voices,” equipped participants with practical advocacy tools and strategies to engage effectively with the EU. This session was particularly valuable in empowering youth to make their voices heard within institutions that have the power to shape policy. By the end of the event, it was clear for all to see that youth have the passion, creativity, and commitment to lead on global challenges—especially when given the tools and platforms to do so.
Reflections: Youth Leadership on the Global Stage
The experience at the Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event has reaffirmed my belief, and many of those in attendance, that youth-led change is not just the future—it is happening now. The event highlighted how crucial youth are in driving forward global priorities, from climate resilience to digital innovation. As a representative of both The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and the GYM, there was a deep sense of responsibility to ensure that these conversations are continued in local and global networks.
The most striking takeaway was the acknowledgment from leaders that youth voices are vital to achieving a sustainable and equitable world. The work being done through initiatives like the Youth Empowerment Fund demonstrates the impact young people can have when empowered and supported.
I believe youth engagement is essential for effective policymaking, and when empowered with resources and platforms, young leaders can significantly contribute to building a more inclusive and sustainable world.
