It was an immense pleasure to have the opportunity to attend the Youth Assembly this year. This was my first time ever attending the Youth Assembly with AFS and I would say it was an amazing experience. The first day of the Youth Assembly was August 12th which was International Youth Day.

The location was at the United Nations Headquarters where countless Youths gathered from all over the world. I had the opportunity to learn more about the amazing work that youths are accomplishing in their home countries. I was also able to have a conversation with these said people on their projects and how they came about. I met people with so much wisdom, passion, empathy, and drive to make the world a better place.

Being able to see people who are around the same age as me taking on huge projects and having such a great influence on people’s lives was without a doubt incredible.

I learned about the importance of the youth of today leading and being part of decision-making. I’m now more than ever driven to put my ideas and plans into action.

In addition to the amazing youths I met, I’ve also made connections with amazing well-known staff of organizations, programs, and corporations. I believe that with them on our side, we’ll be able to achieve so much and greatly impact people. I was also influenced by the work they’re each doing in their respective organizations.

During the following 2 days of the Youth Assembly, we attended sessions, opportunities fairs, and more. Something I learned during these days is the steps I can take toward tackling Sustainable Developments Goals.

As youths, sometimes we’re not sure how to make our voices heard and what actions we can take to tackle issues rampant in our community.

I was able to learn from the youths and staff about the actions I can take and the works I can do in my community to achieve the goal of SDGs and other issues I’m passionate about. From my experience at the 27th Youth Assembly, I believe that young leaders are the future.

Young people in the lead are without a doubt needed more now than ever. We have the power to change the world and it’s time we believe so.

By Rafath Gnabode
NFBPWC/Young BPW