International Youth Day: Empowering the Next Generation
Every year on August 12, the world comes together to recognize the role of young people in shaping a better future. International Youth Day, established by the United Nations in 1999, is more than just a symbolic date—it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also change-makers of today.
Why International Youth Day Matters
Young people make up over 16% of the global population, and in some countries, youth under the age of 25 are the majority. They bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and energy to the world’s most pressing challenges—from climate change and mental health to social justice and technology. However, youth often face significant barriers: unemployment, underrepresentation in political processes, and limited access to education and healthcare.
International Youth Day shines a spotlight on these challenges while celebrating the resilience, talent, and determination of youth worldwide.
Themed for Impact
Each year, the United Nations selects a theme that highlights a particular area of concern or opportunity. Past themes have included:
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Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health
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Youth Engagement for Global Action
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Safe Spaces for Youth
These themes help guide global discussions and inspire programs that support youth development, participation, and empowerment.
Youth as Change Agents
Across the globe, young people are already leading movements that demand justice, equity, and sustainability. From Greta Thunberg’s climate activism to Malala Yousafzai’s fight for girls’ education, youth have shown that age is no barrier to making a difference.
On a smaller scale, thousands of young people are making an impact in their communities every day—organizing clean-up drives, mentoring peers, creating mental health awareness campaigns, and launching social enterprises. International Youth Day provides a platform to highlight these stories and encourage more young voices to speak up.
How to Celebrate and Support
Whether you’re a young person or an adult ally, there are many ways to engage with International Youth Day:
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Host a local event: Organize a workshop, panel discussion, or community project focused on youth issues.
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Amplify youth voices: Use social media to share stories of inspiring youth in your area or around the world.
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Volunteer or mentor: Offer your time to youth-led organizations or mentorship programs.
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Listen and learn: Sometimes, support starts with simply listening to what young people have to say—and taking them seriously.
Governments, schools, nonprofits, and businesses also play a role by creating opportunities for youth participation, investing in education and job training, and ensuring inclusive policies that reflect the diverse needs of young people.
A Day to Celebrate—and Commit
International Youth Day is not just a celebration—it’s a reminder of our collective responsibility to invest in the future. By empowering youth today, we’re building a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world for everyone.
So on August 12, take a moment to recognize the passion, drive, and potential of the world’s youth—and ask yourself what role you can play in supporting them. While we are celebrating youth, be sure to tell the youth in your circles about the Canada Learning Bond-an opportunity for eligible youth to receive up to $2,000 in free money for post-secondary education.
