The "Youths for Inclusion Starts with You and I" Conference was a pivotal event in promoting diversity and inclusivity, particularly focusing on people with disabilities. Led by the Singapore Girl Guides Young Adult (YA) Branch with support from Adult Leader mentors and in collaboration with Temasek Foundation, the conference highlighted key aspects of the Youth for Inclusion Project, which is centred around the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and 10 (Reduced Inequality).
The Young Adults (aged 17-25) conceptualised, planned and organised the conference and learning journeys in Bangkok and Manila with minimal consultation with adult leaders The conference brought together 100 young women from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Activities featured a gamified trail across Tiong Bahru, Redhill, and Enabling Village in Singapore. This trail aimed to enhance cultural awareness and highlight the Land Transport Authority’s inclusive facilities. Additionally, participants engaged with the Singapore Polytechnic School of Life Skills and Communications for advocacy insights and took part in dialogues with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) advocates.
A key component of the event were Advocacy and Learning Journeys. In Thailand and the Philippines, twenty Young Adults and two adult leaders engaged in advocacy and community learning. They explored inclusive practices and met with local organizations, such as the Association Person with Intellectual Disabilities (APID) in Thailand, which focuses on training individuals with disabilities in culinary and event management and advocating for disability rights legislation.
The conference fostered a deeper understanding of diversity and inclusivity and built strong connections among the youth participants. The Young Adults will use their new knowledge to develop a project in Singapore. This initiative will focus on equipping Girl Guides with skills to create and execute inclusive programs for persons with disabilities, making Guiding more accessible and inclusive.
