Every August 12th, the world comes together to mark International Youth Day to celebrate the vision, creativity, and courage of young people driving change in their communities. At HundrED, we see this spirit every day through our Youth Ambassador Programme, which we run in collaboration with International Baccalaureate and Festival of Hope. In here, passionate young changemakers from across the globe connect, learn, and act on issues that matter most to them.
Why International Day of Youth Matters
International Youth Day is a reminder that young people are leading today. This year’s theme, Youth localizing the SDGs, resonates deeply with our Youth Ambassadors, who are tackling challenges from climate change and education inequality to mental health and human rights.
The HundrED Youth Ambassador Perspective
Our programme's next cohort will bring together youth aged 13–19 from 77 countries. Just like with the previous cohorts, they will learn from each other’s diverse experiences, share innovative solutions, and collaborate across borders. From initiating community clean-ups in Kenya, to creating mental health awareness campaigns in India, to advocating for refugee rights in the United States, the projects are all committed to a more sustainable, just, and inclusive world.
Stories of Impact
Isabelle from the US uses creative writing and the power of poetry to improve literacy, confidence and quality education to hundreds of kids in St. Louis through her organization Pen Power Poetry.
Harmony from Nigeria developed HerITage by Harmony, which empowers girls through storytelling, leadership development, mentorship, and school outreach programs, especially in underserved communities. Learn more about HerITage initiative here.
Fabiola, from Peru, started Maya Foundation. Her project aims to reduce the abandonment and suffering of dogs and cats through education, action, and transformative experiences, promoting a more conscious and responsible society.
Each story is an example of what happens when young people are given space, tools, and trust to lead.
Becoming Youth Allies
While youth bring energy and ideas, they also need allies. As our Youth Ambassadors often remind us, meaningful change requires adults to listen, invest in youth-led initiatives, and share decision-making power. International Youth Day is the perfect opportunity for educators, policymakers, and community leaders to reflect: Are we truly making room for youth leadership in our spaces?
The HundrED Youth Ambassador Programme continues to grow, connecting youth who might never have met otherwise and amplifying their solutions to a global audience. Today and everyday, we celebrate our Youth Ambassadors for the example of leadership they are setting all over the world!
