At the International Youth Federation (IYF), we are dedicated to fostering a world where young people are empowered, resilient, and ready to lead. Our mission is to support youth through strategic focus areas that address the most pressing challenges and opportunities they face today. These focus areas are Capacity Building, Innovation, and Civic Engagement. As outlined in our Global Strategy, we have three core focus areas: Capacity Building, Innovation and Civic Engagement.
Capacity Building: Building Strong Foundations
Capacity building is at the core of our mission. We believe that empowering youth with the right skills and knowledge is essential for sustainable development. Our capacity-building initiatives focus on:
- Training and Workshops: We offer a range of training programs and workshops designed to equip young people with essential skills in leadership, communication, and professional development. These programs are tailored to address the specific needs of different communities and regions.
- Mentorship Programs: Through our mentorship initiatives, experienced professionals guide and support youth, helping them navigate their career paths and achieve their goals.
- Educational Resources: We provide access to a wealth of educational materials, including online courses, toolkits, and publications that support continuous learning and growth.
Innovation: Driving Change through Creativity
Innovation is a powerful tool for addressing global challenges and creating new opportunities. At IYF, we encourage and support innovative thinking and actions among young people. Our innovation efforts include:
- Youth Innovation Labs: We establish innovation labs where young people can collaborate, brainstorm, and develop creative solutions to societal problems. These labs provide the resources and support needed to turn ideas into reality.
- Hackathons and Competitions: By organizing hackathons and competitions, we create platforms for young innovators to showcase their talents, compete for funding, and receive recognition for their groundbreaking ideas.
- Incubation and Acceleration: Our incubation and acceleration programs offer startups and young entrepreneurs the guidance, mentorship, and resources they need to scale their innovations and make a significant impact.
Civic Engagement: Empowering Active Participation
Civic engagement is vital for building strong, inclusive, and democratic societies. We strive to foster a sense of responsibility and active participation among youth. Our civic engagement initiatives include:
- The IYF Global Working Group on Youth Policies is a cornerstone of our civic engagement efforts, bringing together young leaders and policy experts from around the world to shape and influence youth policies at national and international levels. This group works collaboratively to analyze current policies, identify gaps, and advocate for the inclusion of youth perspectives in decision-making processes.
- Community Projects: We support and initiate community projects that encourage youth to take active roles in addressing local issues and improving their communities. These projects range from environmental conservation to public health campaigns.
- Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns: We empower young people to advocate for their rights and the rights of others. Through awareness campaigns, we educate youth on critical issues and inspire them to take action.
- Youth Councils and Forums: By collaborating with youth councils and forums, we provide platforms for young people to voice their opinions, influence policy, and engage in meaningful dialogues with decision-makers.