Fostering Connections in New York: Youth Leadership and the Power of Global Change 

Young leaders from around the world are driving meaningful change in areas such as climate action, social justice, and technological advancement. By empowering youth to take charge, we ensure that future generations are prepared to tackle complex challenges and build a more equitable and sustainable world. Their involvement not only inspires others but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for shaping a better future.

Last week, the Reach Alliance proudly sent ten researchers and alumni to the AFS Youth Assembly in New York, a prestigious global event uniting young leaders and innovators through exchange, education, and impactful action. The theme for this year’s assembly, “Forge Our Shared Future,” underscored the importance of intergenerational collaboration and the exchange of ground-breaking ideas. Our delegation joined over 700 participants from 80 countries to engage in sessions, activities, networking opportunities, and even awards.

Our global delegation included: ​​Christian Narh Fiergbor (Ashesi University), Ibtesaam Moosa (University of Toronto), Anila Noushin Mahita (University of Melbourne), Marisol Urías Luna (Tecnológico de Monterrey), Elizabeth Lubinda (University of Cape Town), Noah Khan (University of Toronto), Juliette Henry (University College London), and Joanne Tan (Singapore Management University).

Some of our Reach delegates from 2023—Jason Lo Hog Tian (University of Toronto), Peter Zhang (University of Toronto), and Jayden Battey (University of Melbourne)—returned to participate.

Jayden Battey shared: “I’m proud to have shared some thoughts on youth, peace and security, individualism and isolation, and the rise of contempt in the private and political square at the United Nations in New York this weekend. As almost half of the world’s population elect their leaders this year, it’s critical we use our voice — and votes— to demand a higher caliber of leader.”

Reach representatives also led an engaging “Inclusive Climate Action Lab” workshop. They showcased how research serves as a powerful tool for advocacy and global collaboration in addressing pressing global challenges. Drawing from their case study reports, they shared research insights and highlighted the ground-breaking initiatives of the Reach Alliance. 

AFS Award for Young Global Citizens

Reach researcher Noah Khan was selected as a finalist in the pitching competition for the AFS Award for Young Global Citizens. The award recognizes young people for their commitment to improving the global community and contributing to a more just, peaceful, and tolerant world. Learn more here. 

Noah Khan told us: “I had a great time competing in the pitch competition for the AFS Award for Young Global Citizens. Hearing the other pitches and receiving incisive questions from the judges really helped to refine our project.”

Ibtesaam Moosa also shared her reflections on the multi-day gathering: “I learned the value of taking action, no matter how small, uncertain, or daunting. Hearing delegates share how they were able to turn their small initiatives into larger social movements or policy changes was truly inspiring. The key to change is simple: just start!”

With the conclusion of this year’s AFS Youth Assembly, the renewed sense of purpose and unity among the world’s brightest young leaders was palpable. Their shared vision and innovative ideas ignite hope for global challenges to be met with bold solutions. The drive to create positive change starts with each of us.

Applications for the 2025 AFS Youth Assembly are also now open! Stay tuned for more information on how you can represent Reach next year.