International Youth Day: Celebrating Young People Driving Change Around the World

The next generation isn’t waiting for the future. They’re already shaping it.

Across the world, young people are tackling challenges, driving innovation, and leading positive change in their communities. International Youth Day celebrates their contributions while raising awareness of the opportunities and barriers that shape their lives. This year’s theme, Different Contexts, Common Aspirations, recognizes that although young people experience different realities, they share a common desire for opportunity, inclusion, meaningful participation, and a brighter future.

Today, we’re highlighting nonprofit partners that are helping young people unlock their potential. Learn more about their work and how you can support their efforts below.

Kinyeti Foundation (South Sudan) is helping address a critical education gap in one of the world’s youngest nations, where more than 2.8 million children are currently out of school. By expanding access to quality education for high-potential students, the organization is empowering future entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers. Learn more and donate here.

Empowering Youth Cambodia expands access to education and leadership opportunities in underserved communities across Phnom Penh. In a country where more than 60% of the population is under 30, the organization is helping young people access higher education and achieve life changing milestones, including becoming the first in their families to graduate from high school and attend university. Learn more and donate here.

START Austria Foundation supports talented young people ages 14 to 21 from migrant backgrounds through scholarships and mentorship that help them pursue higher education. As Austria’s only scholarship program dedicated to migrant youth, START helps students work toward university entrance qualifications while providing financial support and personal development opportunities. Learn more and donate here.

Fundación Mi Sangre (Colombia) equips children and young people to become peacebuilders and agents of social transformation who strengthen democratic participation in their communities. Over the past 19 years, the organization has directly impacted more than 2 million people and reached over 11 million through advocacy, with programs spanning more than 250 municipalities across Colombia. Learn more and donate here.

Visiola Foundation (Nigeria) prepares girls and young women for the future through STEM education, mentorship, and hands-on learning experiences that build confidence and leadership skills. Since 2014, the organization has impacted more than 12,200 girls and young women across 10 African countries through programs that expand access to science, technology, and coding education. Learn more and donate here.

Make A Difference (India) supports vulnerable young people with mentoring, education, and career guidance, helping them break cycles of poverty. Through its pioneering mentoring model, young people receive support at every stage of their journey, from education and emotional well-being to life skills and career planning. The organization continues to provide guidance from ages 18 to 28, helping young adults navigate independent living. Learn more and donate here.

PATHWAYS Institute for Negotiation Education (Belgium) helps young people develop negotiation and problem-solving skills that build confidence and strengthen collaboration. By partnering with schools and other nonprofits, PATHWAYS delivers interactive learning experiences that equip participants with practical tools to resolve conflicts and work effectively across diverse backgrounds, helping foster more inclusive communities. Learn more and donate here.

Youth-For-Development Network (Jamaica) harnesses the power of sports and the arts to help vulnerable young people build confidence and create new opportunities. Through entrepreneurship and youth development programs, YFDN has reached more than 9,000 young people and trained over 1,000 adults across nine parishes, fostering supportive environments where youth can realize their potential and pursue brighter futures. Learn more and donate here.

Tagata Moana Trust (New Zealand) expands opportunities for Pacific youth in STEAM through culturally grounded education that inspires innovation and achievement. Although Pacific peoples make up less than 5% of New Zealand’s STEAM workforce, these fields represent some of the fastest growing career pathways. Tagata Moana Trust is helping more Pacific youth access the skills and opportunities needed to succeed. Learn more and donate here.