International Youth Day
8/12 – Everything You Need To Know About International Youth Day
Did you know that there are 1.8 billion youth between the ages of 10 and 24 currently living on the planet? This is the largest population of young people in history.
Despite the unlimited potential our growing youth population promises, the demographics also illuminate some challenges. For example, more than half of children and adolescents between the ages of six and 14 lack basic math and reading skills.
As we all know, education is the root of empowerment. For all youth to be equally empowered, the quality of and access to education on a global scale must be addressed. To honor that call to action, the UN General Assembly established International Youth Day on August 12th, 1999.
What International Youth Day Really Stands For
International Youth Day is an annual celebration of the young men and women of the world. This day recognizes youth as key contributing members, partners and changemakers on the international stage. It also acts as a day to raise awareness of the problems and challenges facing the world’s youth.
What You Can Do On International Youth Day
There are many different ways you can bring attention to International Youth Day in your community. Here are three ways you can make the most of the day dedicated to you:
- Speak up about International Youth Day! Use social media to start the conversation around what this day means to you.
- Plan an International Youth Day event. There are many challenges facing youth today including the climate crisis, access to education, etc. If you collaborate with other community leaders you can create real change on both a local and global level.
- Work with your teachers in school to plan a special International Youth Day project.
Why Every Day is International Youth Day
If you’re currently between the ages of 10 and 24 then technically, every day is youth day for you! You are inheriting your future day by day. Since that’s a pretty big deal, we encourage you to stand up for what you believe, with strength and peace at your core.
The change you spark in your community at a local level, whether that be organizing a climate strike, creating an organization to represent an issue you’re passionate about, or simply starting a conversation about the challenges youth face, will start a ripple effect.
Share Your Acts of Peace with Us
Be a ripple in the pond of life and be sure to share your act of peace with us. Each year, Billion Acts of Peace seeks out youth changemakers to be nominated for the Hero Awards. When you log your act of peace of us, you’ll secure yourself a chance to be nominated!
Until then, keep thinking of ways you can be an active peace-spreader in your community and remember, every act counts.
