International Youth Council

IYC at the United Nations | One World, One Game, One Goal Football as a Catalyst for Youth Mental Health and Well-Being

sadham — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 10:53:24 +0000

IYC at the United Nations | One World, One Game, One Goal Football as a Catalyst for Youth Mental Health and Well-Being

IYC at the United Nations | One World, One Game, One Goal
Football as a Catalyst for Youth Mental Health and Well-Being

17 July 2026 | UN Headquarters, New York

The International Youth Council (IYC) is proud to announce that H.E. Maca Sanchez — the first Argentinian professional female football player and IYC Country Representative for Argentina — will participate as a public figure and advocate at a landmark event organised by the United Nations Youth Office.

Taking place just ahead of the 2026 Men’s World Cup Final, One World, One Game, One Goal brings together young leaders, changemakers, policymakers, UN entities, governments, civil society, private sector partners, athletes and advocates to celebrate football and sports as powerful drivers of youth mental health and well-being. un

About the Event

One World, One Game, One Goal is part of the United Nations Youth Office’s flagship initiative on Youth Mental Health and Well-Being, advancing an important shift from fragmented, individual approaches to a holistic ecosystem model. Mental health is shaped not only by healthcare systems but also by environments, education, community, digital spaces, and opportunities for connection.

The day-long programme at UN Headquarters includes partner-led Spotlight Sessions, hands-on Mental Health and Well-being Workshops, a Football for Well-being Field on the North Lawn Garden, and a high-level Global Celebration of Football and Youth Mental Health in the General Assembly Hall — culminating in the launch of a public advocacy campaign uniting leaders and youth worldwide.

H.E. Maca Sanchez joins an exceptional line-up of advocates and leaders, including Ms. Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations; H.E. Annalena Baerbock, President of the UN General Assembly; football legends Daniel Amokachi and Gilberto Silva; and the UN Young Leaders for the SDGs.

H.E. Maca Sanchez — IYC Country Representative, Argentina

H.E. Maca Sanchez is a pioneering figure in women’s football and an internationally recognised advocate for gender equality, youth empowerment, and sport as a vehicle for social change. As the first Argentinian professional female football player, her journey on and off the pitch reflects the very values that the International Youth Council champions — resilience, inclusion, and the belief that young people can lead transformative change on the world stage

Why This Matters for IYC

As a global civil society organisation founded at the United Nations in 2007, holding Special Consultative Status with UN ECOSOC, the International Youth Council has long recognised that youth well-being — mental, physical, and social — is foundational to sustainable development. Football, as the world’s most popular sport, provides a universal platform to build belonging and social connection, strengthen emotional resilience, and promote inclusion, dignity and collective well-being.

Register to Attend

Those interested in participating can register through the official United Nations registration page.

Apply Now:

https://www.un.org/youthaffairs/en/17-July-2026

4th International Youth Summit Pakistan 2026

sadham — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 19:17:20 +0000

4th International Youth Summit Pakistan 2026

Applications Open for the 4th International Youth Summit Pakistan 2026

The International Youth Council (IYC) is pleased to partner with the 4th International Youth Summit Pakistan (IYSP) 2026, an international platform that brings together emerging leaders, youth advocates, and changemakers from around the world to engage in dialogue, collaboration, and leadership development.

The program welcomes participants from diverse academic, professional, and cultural backgrounds who are committed to youth leadership, international cooperation, and creating positive impact within their communities. Through interactive sessions, networking opportunities, and collaborative activities, participants will gain valuable insights, strengthen their leadership capabilities, and build lasting global connections.

Event Details

Event: 4th International Youth Summit Pakistan (IYSP 2026)

Dates: 27 November – 4 December 2026

Locations: Lahore, Pakistan

Young leaders interested in joining this international experience are encouraged to submit their applications through the official registration portal.

Be a Voice. Be a Leader. Shape the Future.

Apply Now

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International Conference on Social Impact Filmmaking

sadham — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 19:17:07 +0000

IYC in Partnership | International Conference on Social Impact Filmmaking

Cinema for Change: Social Impact and Film Diplomacy

10–11 October 2026 | Reading, United Kingdom

Overview

The International Youth Council (IYC) Headquarters, New York, is honoured to serve as an institutional partner of the International Conference on Social Impact Filmmaking, organised by Activists Without Borders (AWB) — a registered non-profit organisation in the United Kingdom dedicated to supporting rights groups and activists at risk internationally through advocacy, training, and support.

Running alongside the prestigious Activists Without Borders Film Festival and Awards, this two-day international gathering will be held on 10th and 11th October 2026 at The Pavilion, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom — a unique venue combining cinematic heritage with modern screening facilities and dynamic conference spaces.

The conference convenes filmmakers, human rights advocates, social activists, diplomats, educators, and youth leaders from across the world around a shared conviction: that cinema, wielded with purpose and integrity, is one of the most powerful instruments for driving real-world social change.

About Activists Without Borders

Activists Without Borders (AWB) supports rights groups and activists at risk internationally by providing support, training, and advocacy. Through its Film Festival, Impact Filmmakers Network, and AWB Academy, the organisation has built a growing international community of purpose-driven storytellers and social change advocates. The International Conference on Social Impact Filmmaking is a flagship event within this ecosystem — described not as a typical corporate or academic conference, but as a vibrant, creative, and inspiring space where filmmakers connect, share ideas, and explore how storytelling can generate genuine impact.

Conference Theme: Cinema for Change

The 2026 conference is themed “Cinema for Change: Social Impact and Film Diplomacy” — a theme that speaks directly to IYC’s own mission of empowering young people to become agents of positive transformation in their societies and on the world stage.

The programme explores the full landscape of impact-driven filmmaking, including ethical storytelling, impact strategy, funding pathways, career development in purpose-driven cinema, and the emerging discipline of film diplomacy — the use of documentary and narrative film as a tool for advancing human rights, peacebuilding, and international advocacy.

Conference Themes and Focus Areas

The conference is designed for a diverse community of participants united by a commitment to social justice, human rights, and environmental integrity. Key areas of focus include:

Theme 01: Ethical Storytelling and Human Rights

Exploring the responsibilities and craft of filmmakers who document injustice, conflict, and marginalisation across communities and borders.

Theme 02: Environmental Justice and Climate Advocacy

Examining how film serves as a catalyst for environmental activism and public engagement with ecological crises.

Theme 03: Film Diplomacy and International Advocacy

Understanding how social impact cinema contributes to multilateral dialogue, policy influence, and cross-border solidarity movements.

Theme 04: Impact Strategy and Distribution

Providing practical guidance on how filmmakers can design, measure, and amplify the social impact of their work through strategic release and engagement.

Theme 05: Funding and Career Development

Equipping emerging filmmakers with knowledge of funding opportunities, co-production pathways, and professional networks in the international impact filmmaking ecosystem.

Theme 06: Collaborative and Co-Production Opportunities

Facilitating meaningful connections between filmmakers, activists, and institutions seeking to develop joint projects with lasting societal relevance.

Who Should Attend

This conference is designed for all those passionate about the intersection of film, activism, and social change. It is particularly well suited to:

Young filmmakers and documentary makers at any stage of their career who are developing or have completed socially motivated film projects
Human rights advocates, environmental activists, and community organisers who use or wish to use film as part of their campaigning toolkit
Diplomats and policy professionals with an interest in the role of film in international advocacy and public diplomacy
Academics and educators working at the intersection of media, communications, social justice, and development studies
Representatives of civil society organisations, NGOs, and youth networks seeking to integrate impact filmmaking into their programmes and communications.

How to Participate

IYC warmly encourages members of its global network — youth leaders, national chapter representatives, and partner organisations — to apply to attend the 2026 International Conference on Social Impact Filmmaking.

Places are limited, and registration may close early once capacity is reached.

Apply Now

A Shared Vision

“The partnership between the International Youth Council and Activists Without Borders is grounded in a common understanding: that lasting social change requires not only policy and advocacy, but narrative — the stories we tell each other about who we are, what we value, and what kind of world we are determined to build.”

Cinema, at its most purposeful, is an act of diplomacy. It dissolves borders, builds empathy, and calls audiences to action. IYC is proud to stand alongside Activists Without Borders in championing this vision, and to bring the collective energy and global reach of the international youth movement to a conference that exists to make film matter. Together, we tell the stories the world needs to hear.

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International Conference on Leveraging AI to Advance SDGs — WBC MRICS-I 2026

sadham — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 19:16:45 +0000

IYC as Associate Partner | International Conference on Leveraging AI to Advance SDGs — WBC MRICS-I 2026

5 and 6 August 2026 | Dr. Manmohan Singh Bengaluru City University, Bengaluru, India

About the Conference

The International Youth Council (IYC) Headquarters, New York, is honoured to serve as an Associate Partner of the Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation Conference Series-I (MRICS-I) 2026, organised by the Wolverhampton–Bengaluru Centre for Research and Innovation (WBC) — a prestigious collaborative research initiative between the University of Wolverhampton, United Kingdom, and Dr. Manmohan Singh Bengaluru City University, India.

This landmark international conference, themed “Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Advance Sustainable Development Goals,” will be held on 5th and 6th August 2026 at Dr. Manmohan Singh Bengaluru City University, Bengaluru, India, in hybrid mode, welcoming participants from across the globe.

The MRICS-I 2026 conference explores how Artificial Intelligence can accelerate progress toward a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. It convenes leading researchers, academicians, policymakers, industry experts, and youth delegates to engage in interdisciplinary dialogue on the ethical, institutional, and transformative dimensions of AI in the context of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The conference is supported by distinguished academic and institutional partners, including Jain College (Autonomous), RV Institute of Management (RVIM), SCALE — Sona Centre for Advanced Learning and Entrepreneurship, and the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India, among others.

Conference Themes

The conference programme covers five core thematic tracks:

Theme 01: AI in Business & Management

AI-driven sustainable business models, ESG performance, fintech for inclusive economic growth, supply chain resilience, data-driven marketing, human resource management, corporate governance, and entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems.

Theme 02: AI in Basic & Applied Sciences

Environmental science, climate modelling, renewable energy, biotechnology, health sciences, data analytics, agriculture, food security, and resource optimisation.

Theme 03: AI in Arts & Humanities

Culture, society, ethical perspectives, digital humanities, cultural preservation, social change, human–AI interaction, language technologies, philosophy, ethics, and media and communication.

Theme 04: AI in Law & Public Policy

Governance frameworks, data protection, AI in justice delivery, ethical AI and algorithmic transparency, evidence-based policymaking, e-governance, and SDG monitoring and evaluation.

Theme 05: AI in Sustainable Smart Cities & Digital Infrastructure

Smart governance, smart transportation, smart waste management, and smart healthcare.

IYC’s Role and Commitment

IYC’s participation as Associate Partner of MRICS-I 2026 reflects its enduring commitment to supporting rigorous, policy-relevant research and fostering spaces where young voices contribute meaningfully to global knowledge exchange. The Council recognises that Artificial Intelligence represents one of the defining frontiers of the 21st century — and that youth-inclusive governance of AI systems is essential to achieving the SDGs by 2030.

Keynote Speaker

H.E. Eng. Sadham Dhikran Zarjahan

Chief Executive Officer, International Youth Council (IYC) Headquarters, New York

H.E. Eng. Zarjahan brings over a decade of experience in international development, youth policy, and institutional leadership. As a qualified Industrial and Mechatronics Engineer and alumnus of the University of Wolverhampton, he bridges technical expertise with global civil society governance. His keynote address will engage the conference on the intersection of AI, youth empowerment, and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Participation & Submission

IYC encourages researchers, academics, youth practitioners, and policy professionals from its global network of chapters across UN Member States to participate in and contribute to this conference.

Registration and Abstract Submission:

Apply Here

A Shared Vision

“The partnership between IYC and the Wolverhampton–Bengaluru Centre for Research and Innovation reflects a shared commitment to evidence-based knowledge, ethical innovation, and the principle that no one — and no country — should be left behind in the global transition to an AI-enabled future.”

The International Youth Council looks forward to contributing to this vital international dialogue and to amplifying the voices of young people in shaping the responsible governance of Artificial Intelligence worldwide.

For further information on IYC’s participation in this conference, please contact:

info@internationalyouthcouncil.com

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Youth-Led Community Innovations: Driving SDG progress from the ground up

sadham — Sat, 06 Sep 2025 23:05:01 +0000

Youth-Led Community Innovations: Driving SDG progress from the ground up

Highlights from International Youth Day – IYC:

On August 12th, the International Youth Council (IYC) hosted a webinar in celebration of International Youth Day, emphasizing the critical role of youth-led action in achieving the UN’s 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event highlighted that genuine progress relies on empowering young people today, rather than waiting for future generations.

Keynote speakers and panelists showcased how young visionaries are already designing solutions, driving projects, and transforming communities. Youth innovation and courage are not distant hopes—they are active realities across the globe.

The webinar spotlighted the power of youth-led grassroots initiatives. Discussions highlighted how local actions enable tailored solutions that directly meet community needs, from bridging educational gaps with technology to launching environmental sustainability projects.

Special attention was given to the Global South, where youth often face limited access to resources, decision-making spaces, education, and employment. Through targeted support, AI and digital literacy training, and genuine partnerships, these young changemakers can lead innovations with impact far beyond their local communities.

Speakers emphasized that lasting progress does not always require sweeping reforms. Small acts—teaching a child, supporting a local organization, or fostering cross-cultural connections—can create ripples of positive change. An example is IYC’s Tiny Hands Initiative, which connects volunteers with vetted schools and orphanages for direct, meaningful impact.

Panel discussions also explored how technology and sports amplify youth voices, promote inclusion, and foster justice. Initiatives like Kalimat Palestina provide educational technology and organize community sports in conflict-affected regions, addressing both physical and emotional needs.

Inclusive engagement was a recurring theme. Ensuring marginalized groups have a voice strengthens the sustainability of youth initiatives and reinforces the principle that every perspective—regardless of gender, ability, or background—matters.

Private sector and institutional support were highlighted as key to scaling youth initiatives. Flexible funding, technical guidance, and participation in international forums such as the UN General Assembly and COP conferences can elevate local projects to global sustainable models. Embedding youth voices at all levels of governance ensures lasting outcomes.

The webinar concluded with a call to action: youth worldwide are not just imagining a better future—they are actively building it. Decision-makers, organizations, and society must support, resource, and champion youth-led action to extend the spirit of International Youth Day beyond a single date.

Leadership, as emphasized throughout the webinar, is defined by courage, clarity, and responsiveness—not by age. The IYC event reaffirmed that the time for youth-powered change is now, driven by bold innovation and the steady work of local heroes everywhere.

You can watch the full webinar recording on our YouTube channel .

Written by: Urwa Naveed

Duration

Start date : 12.8.2025

Completed Date : 12.8.2025

Location(s)

Remote Live Stream.

IYC Focal Area(s)

Creating Sustainable Societies.

Leadership of the Project

IYCHQ and IYCKSA.

Strategic Partnerships

YCHQ, IYC KSA, IYC Argentina, IYC Sri Lanka, IYC Yemen.

SDG Number

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Interfaith Dialogue for Human Dignity and Justice

sadham — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 02:36:47 +0000

Interfaith Dialogue for Human Dignity and Justice

Project Description

We extend our sincere appreciation to the distinguished panelists and moderator whose insights deeply enriched the Dignity Conference in Sri Lanka. A special thanks to Shkak Kareem Ahmed, Project Associate at the International Youth Council Headquarters (IYCHQ), for moderating the panel with both depth and empathy. We are especially grateful to the panelists for sharing their valuable perspectives on faith, human dignity, gender-based violence, and Indigenous rights:

Rev. Asiri P. Perera Retired President Bishop, Methodist Church Sri Lanka
Sheikh Umair Yoosuf Board Secretary – Zamzam Foundation Founder & Head of Strategy – Menta Media & Synch Labs
Professor Ranjith Bandara Emeritus Professor of Economics, University of Colombo Chairman, Kirula Foundation
Darshaka Sharma Kurukkal Chief Hindu Priest, Consultant on Religious Affairs – Universal Human Rights Organisation Sri Lanka Chief Priest – All Ceylon Hindu Congress

Your contributions helped foster a meaningful space for dialogue, learning, and collective reflection.

Thank you for your commitment to advancing dignity and justice for all.

Duration

Start date : 8.07.2025

Completed Date : 10.07.2025

Location(s)

Colombo, Sri Lanka

IYC Focal Area(s)

Improving Physical, Mental and Social Well-being

Leadership of the Project

IYC Headquarters

Strategic Partnerships

International Centre for Ethnic Studies (ICES) Colombo.

SDG Number

5,10,16

Strategic Goals:

Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.

End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children.

Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements.

Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.

Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels .

Fast Facts:

Challenges

Promoting the rule of law and equal access to justice at national and international levels.

Addressing complex issues of faith, human dignity, gender-based violence, and Indigenous rights.

Solutions

Moderated panel discussions fostered cross-faith and interdisciplinary exchanges on these challenges.

Emphasis on promoting inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making processes.

Benefits and Impact

Raised awareness on ending abuse, trafficking, and violence against children.

Enhanced understanding of human dignity issues among stakeholders across faiths and sectors.

Created a meaningful space for continuous dialogue toward inclusive, tolerant, and peaceful societies.

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Bare Face Campaign 2023

sadham — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 06:50:36 +0000

Bare Face Campaign 2023

Project ID: IYC/HQ/2022/01

Project Description

On International Women's Day, March 8th, 2023, the IYC and Miss England bare-face winner 22 Melisa Raouf launched a bare-face campaign. The "Bare Face Campaign" was launched to encourage people to accept themselves without makeup or filters. The campaign's purpose is to challenge social beauty norms and empower people to feel confident in their own way. The Bare Face Campaign aims to highlight the beauty of flaws and promote self-acceptance. It inspires them to proudly reveal their natural features, such as freckles, scars, or blemishes, rather than conceal them with makeup. This campaign served as a platform for open conversations about self-esteem, encouraging people especially women to support one another on their journey to acceptance.

Duration

Start date : 08.03.2023

Completed Date : 08.03.2023

Location(s)

Online

IYC Focal Area(s)

Improving Physical, Mental and Social Well-being

Leadership of the Project

IYC Headquarters

IYC Sri Lanka

Strategic Partnerships

SDG Number

Strategic Goals:

Promoting body positivity: Encouraging people to appreciate their natural characteristics and feel confident in their own way, regardless of society's beauty standards or expectations.

Challenging unrealistic beauty ideals: raising awareness about the pressures placed on individuals, particularly women, to conform to false beauty standards.

Individual empowerment: Inspiring people to embrace themselves as they are, developing self-esteem, and promoting self-expression.

Advocating for inclusivity: emphasising diversity in beauty and emphasising that everyone is gorgeous in their own unique way.

Fast Facts:

Challenges

This movement represents a great advancement in defying established beauty norms and encouraging a more open society. It promotes self-acceptance and body positivity, which encourages people to accept themselves as they are rather than striving for an unachievable ideal of perfection.

Solutions

With this campaign, people were educated about the dangers of excessive makeup use as well as the importance of embracing natural beauty.

Collaborating with Miss England bare-faced winner 22 Melisa Raouf, who has embraced her bare face globally and has had a significant impact on promoting the campaign's message.

Benefits and Impact

Enabled people to be confident in their own ways. This movement appreciated natural beauty, encouraged people to appreciate their unique characteristics, and increased their self-esteem.

Furthermore, this campaign had a significant impact on societal beauty standards, challenging long-held views that beauty is synonymous with heavy makeup and flawless appearances. The Bare Face Campaign 2023 promoted inclusivity and diversity in defining what it means to be attractive by appreciating natural beauty.

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The Global Women Summit 2023

sadham — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 06:31:51 +0000

The Global Women Summit 2023

Project Description

The Global Women Summit 2023 was held on February 21st and 22nd, 2023, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Her Majesty, Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairperson of the General Women's Union UAE and Supreme Chairperson of the Family Development Foundation, along with significant stateswomen, religious figures, business executives, social activists, cultural icons, media people, and intellectuals from over 100 nations, assembled to cover a wide range of challenges confronting women at that critical juncture in human history, as well as initiatives to establish connections across communities for women. Sadham D. Zarjhan, the CEO of the International Youth Council and TWMCC's youth representative, actively contributed to the summit's success by providing his leadership to the youth team. This global event was able to bring together policymakers, scholars, activists, and practitioners to exchange ideas, experiences, and solutions from female leaders on issues such as gender inequality, domestic violence, and political challenges.

Attending the Global Summit of Women in Abu Dhabi was an experience that I will never forget. As one of the youngest delegates in attendance, I had a lot to learn, but the lessons and inspiration I received from the incredible women I met will stay with me for a lifetime.

I saw so many powerful and empowering women of all ages and backgrounds speak about their experiences and journeys. They came from all sectors and were smart, bold, and determined to achieve their dreams. Seeing these women succeed in their goals no matter where they were from, truly inspired me. I felt empowered myself to keep being an inspiration to the new generation and help them achieve their dreams too.

I'm grateful to have been a part of the International Youth Council and to have had the opportunity to attend this summit. The Council is a supportive team of like minded individuals that share the same passion for empowering the next generation. I met them through online communication network and they have been incredibly supportive of my beliefs in empowering young people.

I had the chance to learn so much from the Summit and to hear from so many influential women. They shared their stories, struggles, and successes with us, and it was truly inspiring. Being a part of this event has given me the motivation and drive to continue working towards empowering young people and promoting gender equality.

Attending the Global Summit of Women was not just a typical holiday, it was an opportunity to learn, grow and be inspired. I am grateful for the chance to be a part of such a wonderful event and for the continued support of the International Youth Council. I'm looking forward to being a part of helping the next generation and making the world a better place.

- Ms. Melisa Raouf -
Founder
Barefacetrendmovement, UK Miss England Bare Face Winner 2022

On February 21 and 22, 2023, a 2-day Global Summit of Women was held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). FundLife was invited to join this prestigious gathering of Prominent stateswomen, faith leaders, entrepreneurs, social activists, cultural personalities, media celebrities, and scholars from more than 100 countries. Invited by the International Youth Council, the gathering provided an opportunity for FundLife to share its ongoing efforts to ensure every single girl and young woman has an equitable opportunity to reach their full potential.

The purpose of the summit was to discuss the various roles of women in different areas of society – media, politics, philanthropy and humanities, the media and creative industries, and in education and sciences; as well as the weight and importance of these roles. During the conference, notable women leaders spoke about their experiences and discussed among the panel pressing matters where women are concerned.

Ms. Marie Angelique Villamor, Programs Lead for Girls and Women, was the representative of FundLife. Being a girl and woman advocate, she described her experience at the summit as a perfect avenue for women from different parts of the world to discuss important matters, especially the impactful roles and results of women in nation building, awareness-raising, and social inclusivity. More than simply being part of the summit, she gained different insights on how women can impact society and become partners for change and sustainability alongside their male counterparts. She also added that all women present in the summit each brought with them their advocacies, and the summit magnified their advocacies as each one of them are mirrors of each other.

The Global Women Summit of 2023 would not be possible without the patronage of Her Highness, Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation and the Chairwoman of General Women’s Union – United Arab Emirates, the Supreme Chairperson of the Family Development Foundation (FDF), the World Muslim Communities Council (TWMCC), and of course, the International Youth Council, who provided the opportunity for FundLife to participate in this prestigious event.

- Ms. Marie Angelique Villamor -
Head of Operations
Cebu Officer Fundlife International Inc, Thailand

Duration

Start date : 21.02.2023

Completed Date : 23.02.2023

Location(s)

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

IYC Focal Area(s)

Creating Sustainable Societies

Improving Physical, Mental and Social Well-being

Leadership of the Project

IYC Headquarters

Strategic Partnerships

The World Muslim Communities Council (TWMCC) in partnership with Her Majesty, Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairperson of the General Women’s Union-UAE, and Supreme Chairperson of the Family Development Foundation (FDF).

SDG Number

5,16,17

Strategic Goals:

To explore ideas, experiences, and solutions from female leaders on issues such as gender inequality, domestic violence, and political concerns, and participants gave positive feedback.

To recognize, present, and value women's skills and talents.

To discuss a wide range of challenges affecting women and strategies for building bridges between communities for peace, inclusion, and prosperity.

Fast Facts:

Challenges

The Global Women's Summit addressed a wide range of topics impacting women around the world. Among the topics discussed were gender inequality and discrimination, as well as gender-based violence. The summit's goal was to bring global leaders and experts together to discuss strategies and solutions for enhancing women's empowerment.

Solutions

Solutions to increase empowerment and impact through building women's networks and cooperation.

Adoption of national gender policies and procedures, to ensure that women are adequately represented in all fields.

Benefits and Impact

The summit emphasized the significance of women's voices in global public policy and governance, encouraging them to engage in decision-making in their communities, countries, and multilateral organizations.

It served as an amazing platform for the sharing of information and resources among participants from all over the world by building understanding and enhancing intercultural interchange, allowing participants access to a varied scope of thoughts, opinions, ideas, and resources from multiple nations.

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Tackling Plastic Pollution in Islamabad Capital on World Consumer Rights Day, 2021

sadham — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 06:30:20 +0000

Tackling Plastic Pollution in Islamabad Capital on World Consumer Rights Day, 2021

Project ID: IYC/HQ/2021/01

Project Description

To commemorate World Consumer Rights Day, the Network for Consumer Protection organized a webinar titled "Tackling Plastic Pollution" on March 15, 2021, to free Islamabad's capital city from polythene bags and set an example for other cities. The webinar aimed to improve consumer awareness of sustainable purchasing and encourage necessary changes to make addressing plastic pollution easy. "Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repair, and Replace" was the campaign theme for World Consumer Rights Day 2021.

Mr. Rana Waqas Anwar, Additional Deputy Commissioner Islamabad; Mr. Babar Sahib Din, Additional Deputy Commissioner Islamabad (East); Zulfiqar Ali Jhammat, Deputy Director, Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR); and Sadham Zarjahan, CEO of the International Youth Council, presented speeches during the session. Every year, Consumers International, the global membership organization representing consumer organizations, commemorates World Consumer Rights Day to highlight the importance of consumer protection and empowerment. One of the keynote presenters, Mr. Sadham D. Zarjahan, underlined the necessity of adopting minor changes to reduce plastic use, particularly polythene bags. He mentioned that if the ICT administration encouraged people to use less plastic in their daily lives, they would be more likely to follow best practices worldwide. He emphasized the significance of consumer participation and comprehension in ensuring that the rules are followed.

Duration

Start date : 15.03.2021

Completed Date : 15.03.2021

Location(s)

Islamabad, Pakistan

IYC Focal Area(s)

Protecting the Environment

Creating Sustainable Societies

Leadership of the Project

IYC Headquarters

Strategic Partnerships

Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration, Ministry of Climate Change representatives, and Environment Protection Agency.

SDG Number

12,13,17

Strategic Goals:

To convince people to join the effort to prevent plastic pollution.

To educate citizens about the state of plastic pollution and the importance of making progress towards eradication.

To prevent plastic pollution and build comprehensive waste management systems that promote recycling and proper disposal.

Fast Facts:

Challenges

Underlined the importance of individual responsibility in reducing plastic usage through wise purchase decisions and correct waste disposal methods, as well as collective action now to create a cleaner planet for future generations.

Solutions

The importance of individual responsibility in reducing plastic usage through wise purchasing decisions and proper waste disposal procedures, as well as collective action now to create a cleaner planet for future generations, was emphasized.

Benefits and Impact

Being able to reduce the health issues associated with plastic pollution by implementing proper waste management systems and supporting recycling programmes.

Being able to protect endangered species while preserving ecological balance.

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Panel Discussion – Depression – A mental state or Illness?

sadham — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 06:30:01 +0000

Panel Discussion - Depression - A mental state or Illness?

Project ID: HMHA0001

Project Description

On United Nations Day, October 24, 2022, the day to help raise public awareness of political, cultural, social, and humanitarian fields , the International Youth Council (IYC) conducted a virtual panel discussion, "Depression: A Mental State or Illness?" live streamed through the IYC's Facebook page and YouTube channel, with various mental health professionals discussing depression, its effects on South Asian populations, and how it affects different age groups. The panellists for this discussion were:

Ms. Akhila Vuntla, ABA Therapist, MS in Clinical Psychology, USA

Annie Pink, Corporate Trainer, NLP Master Practitioner, NLP Psychotherapist, and Hypnotist, ASDA Kampala, Uganda

Mr. Sachin P. Jayashan, Senior Counsellor, District General Hospital, Kegalle, Sri Lanka

Ms. Shivali S. Desai, Special Educator, The Victoria Memorial School for the Blind, Mumbai, India

Duration

Start date : 24.08.2021

Completed Date : 24.08.2021

Location(s)

Online

IYC Focal Area(s)

Improving Physical, Mental and Social Well-being

Leadership of the Project

IYC Headquarters

Strategic Partnerships

SDG Number

Strategic Goals:

Evaluated various viewpoints on whether depression is a mental state or illness to advance a better understanding of depression.

Aimed to create awareness of the complexities of depression by challenging myths and misconceptions.

Attempted to influence mental health policy improvements with the goal of better preventative measures, early intervention, and improved depression therapy.

Fast Facts:

Challenges

The panel discussion provided critical insights into understanding depression as both a mental state and an illness. It emphasised crucial themes such as the stigma associated with mental health concerns, accurate diagnosis, socioeconomic factors impacting depression risk factors, and the wide spectrum of therapies available.

Solutions

Experts analyzed the data supporting each opinion and examined the symptoms of depression, its impact on people's daily lives, and how it can be diagnosed. This discussion raised awareness, deepened understanding, and fortified people who live in the darkness of depression.

Benefits and Impact

Had the power to raise awareness about the complexities of this condition and generate empathy and understanding among people who may have minimal knowledge about mental health issues. Furthermore, it urged people suffering from depression to seek therapy and support, understanding that it is a medical condition that requires expert care.

Improved awareness and enhanced support systems for people suffering by this serious condition.

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