Around the world, young people are finding innovative ways to improve their communities even in the face of unimaginable hardship.
Today, on International Youth Day, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the ingenuity of young people as they change the world for the better.

YOUNG LEADERS WHO INSPIRE US

PERSON 1: MARY

Mary Luz, 15, of La Paz, Bolivia, created an award-winning robotic boat to collect trash from rivers and lakes. With the help of UNICEF's Skills4Girls program, Mary Luz and other Bolivian girls are learning science, technology and leadership skills, paving the way for promising careers in STEM.

PERSON 2: MUHAMMAD

Muhammad Abdullahi of Azare in Nigeria’s Bauchi State uses his UNICEF Youth Agency Marketplace (Yoma)-acquired skills to inspire change. After collecting plastic waste to pay for his university tuition, Abdullahi is now proud to work as a health educator — modeling an impactful career path for other young Africans.

PERSON 3: SOFIA

Sofia, 17, of Ukraine, hosts a podcast on Teenage Island, a teen-led virtual space offering connection and psychological support to young Ukrainians coping with life under siege. With the help of UNICEF UPSHIFT, teens like Sofia can identify challenges in their communities and implement innovative solutions, like Teenage Island’s podcast series and group psychosocial support activities.

CTA BUTTON:
SEE MORE INSPIRING STORIES

UNICEF is dedicated to empowering young people far and wide with the skills they need to grow, pursue their passions and inspire positive change. Learn more about the ways UNICEF is uplifting the next generation of leaders >>

Thank you for being there for children,

UNICEF USA

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