Why Youth Mental Health Matters

Speakers emphasized that mental health is foundational to young people’s ability to thrive, particularly in a rapidly changing world shaped by political polarization and technological disruption. Factors such as poverty, access to education, and decent work opportunities directly influence well-being.

Moderator: António Pedro Tavares Pinho, People Next Generation Fellow, UN Foundation

Speakers:

• Nattanicha Kattiyavara, Youth Reference Group
• Maria Barreneche, Youth Advocacy & Well-being International Specialist, UN Youth Office

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Addressing the Youth Unemployment Crisis

This session focused on the persistent barriers young people face in accessing meaningful employment. Speakers shared innovative, youth-led initiatives that are creating more inclusive pathways to decent work.

Moderator: Bora Kamwanya, Vice-President, Pan African Youth Union

Speakers:

• Puneet Singh Singhal, Co-founder of Billion Strong and member of UN Youth Office Reference Group
• Lindsey Huahuamullo, Founder of ImpactaYA and member of UN Youth Office Reference Group

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Shaping Africa’s Climate Future

Panelists highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on Africa, and showcased practical solutions and innovations aimed at strengthening resilience, improving water security, and driving locally led climate action.

Moderator: Damon Hamman, Graduate Student, New York University, Centre for Global Affairs.

Speakers:

• Eugenia Boateng, Founder and Executive Director of African Diaspora Youth Hub, FABA (For Africa, By Africa) Institute
• Jabri Ibrahim, UN Secretary-General’s Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change
• Sibusiso Mazomba, UN Secretary-General’s Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change

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Young People as Drivers of Gender Equality

The session explored how young activists are advancing gender equality in the face of growing global pushback on women’s rights through digital innovation and grassroots organizing. Speakers reinforced the importance of inclusive participation in building a more equitable society.

Moderator: Aishworya Shrestha, Young Leader for SDGs, UN Youth Office

Speakers:

• Hanna Mulugeta Melaku, Youth Reference Group
• Yasmine Aburaya, Founder of Your Voice Initiative and Youth Leader in Gender Equality and Civic Engagement

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Everyday Peace: Youth on the Frontlines of Change

This session highlighted the role of young people as active agents of peace in their communities. Through dialogue, advocacy, and local action, youth are helping to build trust, prevent conflict, and promote social cohesion.

Moderator: Ishaan Shah, Lead Next Generation Fellow, UN Foundation
Speakers:

• Kenan Fehrić, Member, UN Youth Advisory Board in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Rahaf Abu Mayyaleh, Generation17 Young Leader, UN Development Programme

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