This is What Meaningful Youth Participation Looks Like
Celebrating International Youth Day 2025 đđđŹ
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Across our global Movement, young people are shaping their own experiences, leading with purpose, and proving whatâs possible when youth voices are at the heart of decision-making.
Today, weâre sharing a series of stories from across the Movement, released throughout the day, that celebrate these changemakers and show how meaningful youth participation transforms communities.
In Singapore, a challenge became an opportunity in the Girls for Green Energy pilot. When an unfamiliar game left some adult leaders unsure how to begin, peer leaders stepped forward to guide gameplay, support their peers, and create a safe and brave space for everyone to learn together. What started as uncertainty transformed into one of the programmeâs greatest strengths â a powerful example of the WAGGGS REAL experience: Relevant, Exciting, Accessible, and Learner-Led, powered by girls, for girls.
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In the Arab Region, the Arab Young Womenâs Subcommittee has spent the past three years building spaces where young women donât just participate â they belong, lead, and shape the future. From leading the 3rd Arab Regional Rovers Camp to representing the Region in key events, their work has shown that youth participation is alive, growing, and full of heart.
In Belgium, Scouts en Gidsen Vlaanderenâs General Assembly meets four times a year to shape the organisationâs future. Elected young leaders take part in a process that reflects the needs of members at every level. In 2025, this participatory approach informed the first update to the organisationâs Scouting Values in 20 years, shaped by a year of conversations, surveys, and shared reflection.
In Ugandaâs Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Nelly Kamikaziâs journey from participant to project co-lead shows how opportunity sparks leadership. After attending a leadership and climate action training in 2021, Nelly began mobilising and inspiring other young people, co-leading climate initiatives from energy-saving stoves to reforestation and recycling. Her work has reached more than 1,000 households and mentored countless younger girls.
In Canada, youth participation is embedded in every level of Girl Guides of Canada. Through the National Youth Council and Provincial Youth Forums, members aged 12â17 help shape programmes, lead projects, and bring their perspectives to senior decision-makers. From national challenges to Board-level nominations, these young leaders show how intergenerational leadership thrives when youth are given real decision-making power.
These stories reflect the many ways meaningful youth participation takes shape around the world. Whether in local communities or on the global stage, young people are creating change, shaping decisions, and building a Movement where their voices are always heard and valued.
Learn more about meaningful youth participation and submit your story by visiting our dashboard.
đâïž Happy International Youth Day âïžđ