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10 Ways to Celebrate Youth on International Youth Day

International Youth Day, celebrated on August 12th, is a day dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the contributions of young people to society. It serves as a reminder of the potential and power that youth hold to shape a better future. Whether you are a young person yourself or someone who wants to support and celebrate the youth around you, here are 10 impactful ways to celebrate International Youth Day.

10 Impactful Ways to Celebrate Youth on International Youth Day

1. Organize a Youth Forum

Hosting a youth forum can provide a platform for young people to voice their opinions, share their experiences, and discuss issues that matter to them. It encourages dialogue, fosters understanding, and empowers youth to take an active role in their communities. Invite local leaders, educators, and community members to join the conversation.

2. Volunteer with Youth Organizations

Many organizations focus on supporting and empowering youth. Volunteering with these groups not only aids their missions but also allows you to directly impact the lives of young people. Consider mentoring, offering your skills, or simply providing your time to help with various projects and events.

International Youth Day

3. Host a Talent Showcase

Celebrate the creativity and talents of young people by organizing a talent showcase. Whether it’s music, dance, art, or poetry, giving youth a stage to display their abilities can boost their confidence and highlight their diverse skills. This can be done virtually or in person, depending on your community’s preferences and safety guidelines.

4. Start a Youth-Led Initiative

Encourage young people to identify a cause they are passionate about and help them start a project or initiative around it. This could be anything from a community clean-up, a social media campaign, or a fundraising event for a local charity. Providing guidance and resources can help turn their ideas into reality.

5. Promote Mental Health Awareness

Mental health is a critical issue for young people today. Use International Youth Day to promote mental health awareness by organizing workshops, webinars, or discussions focused on mental well-being. Providing resources and creating a safe space for conversations about mental health can make a significant impact.

Youth mental health

6. Celebrate Achievements

Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of young people in your community. Whether it’s academic accomplishments, sports achievements, or contributions to the community, recognizing their hard work and dedication can be incredibly motivating and affirming. Check out the British Columbia Youth Entrepreneurs of the Year in 2023.

7. Run a Storytelling Contest

Encourage young people to share their experiences, dreams, and challenges through storytelling. Organize a contest where participants can submit essays, videos, or art pieces, and recognize the most impactful stories. This fosters creativity and allows young voices to be heard.

8. Create Art Together

Art can be a powerful form of expression and a great way to bring people together. Organize an art project where young people can collaborate on a mural, sculpture, or any creative endeavor. This not only fosters teamwork but also leaves a lasting legacy that the community can enjoy.

9. Support Local Youth Businesses

Many young entrepreneurs are starting their own businesses and initiatives. Support these efforts by purchasing their products, promoting their services, or offering mentorship. This not only helps young entrepreneurs grow but also strengthens the local economy.

10. Advocate for Youth Policies

Use your voice to advocate for policies that support youth. This can include better education funding, mental health resources, job opportunities, and more. Engage with local government representatives, participate in campaigns, and raise awareness about the issues that affect young people.

International Youth Day is a special occasion to honor and empower the young people in our lives. By taking action through these 10 ways, we can make a positive impact on their development and well-being. Celebrating youth not only enriches their lives but also paves the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

If you’re looking for more ideas on how to celebrate International Youth Day, check out this previous blog:

10 Empowering Actions to Unleash Youth Potential: Celebrating International Youth Day

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Aliya Hussein is a writer and mental health advocate. She's dabbled in journalism, marketing, film, and is now focused on helping others through the art of self-expression. Her work can be found at 604 Now, Thrive Global, and CBC. She's currently doing her Master's in Mental Health Counseling and in her free time enjoys a strong cup of tea, adventuring with her partner, and badly rated horror movies. Her three favorite ways to give back are to volunteer time to those in crisis, treat friends to pick-me-ups, and recycle.