The United Nations Headquarters in New York City hosted a vibrant celebration of International Youth Day, organized by AFS Intercultural Programs, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), and the Permanent Mission of Malta to the United Nations. Themed “Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation Through Technology and Partnerships,” the event brought together young leaders, policymakers, diplomats, innovators, and civil society representatives to explore how technology and collaboration can reshape global diplomacy.
The celebration provided a dynamic platform for dialogue, highlighting the critical role of youth in fostering inclusive and innovative approaches to multilateral cooperation. Participants from diverse backgrounds engaged in discussions focused on strengthening global partnerships, with an emphasis on leveraging technology to address pressing global challenges.
A distinguished panel of speakers shared insights and inspired attendees. Dr. Felipe Paullier, Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, delivered video remarks. H.E. Albert Grech, Chargé d’affaires a.i. of the Permanent Mission of Malta to the UN, and Samim Hamidy from UNITAR’s Division of Multilateral Diplomacy underscored the importance of youth-driven diplomacy.
Other panelists included Daphne Frias, a Forbes 30 Under 30 Youth Advocate; Azza Karam, Founding President and CEO of Lead-Integrity; Jennie Magiera, Global Head of Education Impact at Google; Daniel Obst, President and CEO of AFS Intercultural Programs; Shah Chowdhury, Co-Founder and President of Footsteps Bangladesh; Ilan Enverga, Youth Representative on the UNESCO SDG4 High-Level Steering Committee; Dana Al Anzy, Head of Strategic Partnerships at the Education Above All Foundation; and Yugratna Shirawastwa, Co-Chair of the Major Group of Children and Youth.
The event featured powerful statements that resonated deeply with the audience. Dr. Azza Karam emphasized the responsibility of young people, stating, “Your generation is not only an inspiration—it has a massive responsibility… but it is a responsibility that you each can bear with pride, ability, and open hearts to see one another as equals.” Her call to move beyond colonial legacies and embrace equality was met with strong applause.
Similarly, Daniel Obst, President and CEO of AFS Intercultural Programs, highlighted the human element in global unity, noting, “Technology can connect us, but only people can unite us, and unity is what the world needs most right now.”
Delegates from South Asia and beyond shared their experiences, underscoring the importance of representation in global conversations. Shreeya Tuladhar, a Nepali-American delegate and Executive Director of the Minority Empowerment Network, described the event as “profoundly inspiring,” emphasizing that “our unique stories and perspectives are not just needed—they are essential.”
Yumi Parajuli, a Nepali Ambassador for the 30th Youth Assembly, highlighted the role of South Asian women in leadership, stating, “When we take up space on global platforms, we’re challenging stereotypes, influencing policy, and opening doors for the next generation.”
Nadir Hassan, a Pakistani delegate and Student Ambassador at the American University of Bahrain, called the experience “transformative,” noting the empowerment of representing his heritage on a global stage.
Christiana Miracle Bimba, a Liberian delegate and Founder of Girls for Change Initiative, shared how the event energized her mission to empower girls and combat school-based sexual exploitation in Liberia.
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Susan Shrestha
View More PostsSusan Shrestha is a Europe-based journalist. He covers a wide range of topics, from local matters to global affairs. Shrestha previously worked as a reporter for Khasokhas in Nepal.
