Who: Youth in San Diego, CA
Age: Elementary School-College
What: Youth Rising Summits
Dialogue is the key to change and the start of action. This is a pretty cool story about youth creating dialogue around California from Right To Learn.
Inspiring Youth Leaders at Successful San Diego Summit for Right To Learn and YouthNoise
March 29th, 2008: San Diego, CA. We had another successful and exciting summit in our series of Youth Rising events across the U.S. this year. Our California summits in San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, Fresno, L.A., and San Diego were important in order to bring students together to discuss real issues in each of the regions’ education systems. In the end, we planned, plotted and discussed how we wanted to take action. San Diego was no exception to this energy, excitement and commitment.
Great HIGHLIGHTS from the day included:
1. Mr. Random Abiladeze performed and facilitated a great discussion about his poetry and put on a great performance during lunch. Random does classroom visits all over the state and is always so interestingly intrigued by meaningful conversations…which leads him to discussions about education and Right to Learn. He also performed in Fresno and we’ll keep him in our sights for future things we do. Tons of talent and a truly warm and generous person who I deeply respect for his art.
2. TracenDANCE- a youth arts and dance non-profit also performed and wow-ed us with their artistic portrayals of movement as a means to discuss social issues- one about technology taking over our lives, one about loving who we are, and one about making your voice be heard. It was GREAT stuff.
3. Participants!!! We had 35 participants from 2 colleges and 12 different high schools. If I could have put together a group of leaders, I could not have done it better. These people that showed up just go to prove how advanced and full of passion young people are. For some reason, we just got the most excited and perfect individuals to attend this summit. They were all amazing, but here are some of my most memorable participants.
a. Miranda, one of our CitiJos and YouthNoise users attended! It was awesome to have that connection, and she was so gosh darn pumped and has started a Day of Action at Scripps Ranch High.
b. Rodrigo, another participant, picked up a RTL flyer the few days before the event, organized classroom visits that Thursday before, and on Friday had 300 young people at his school signed up to do a DAY OF ACTION at his school. This guy was filled with so much knowledge and excitement I could have sworn he’s been organizing for years. He just got it- media advocacy, partnering with parents and teachers, personalizing student stories, educating all his peers on the issue, organizing an event at the school board meeting next week, and extending the movement to be “A MOVEMENT OF ALL OF US, not just one persons idea.” I’m not even kidding, we’ll see him running something big in the future. Keep an eye out.
c. Katrina and Paul - both attend Preuss Charter School in S.D., a charter school in San Diego that buses students from across the region. The budget cuts are affecting their transportation services and may cut some of the bus routes out (not good). They are excited about starting a day of action and doing a “School tour” with their classes..visiting the bigger S.D. public schools to connect with students and learn more about what’s happening in other places. They both are outreach organizers for their school, and are articulate and smart as hell. Seriously. Amazing.
4. Volunteer San Diego volunteers and the SAVY Leaders. They are super amped about all this education stuff. They are dedicating their April Newsletter to the idea of advocating for education. Their staff offered to be adult allies for the students and were amazing positive forces. The leader that showed up from their group were motivated and ready to present this education advocacy at the Global Youth Service day as well!
5. Third Monday in October film screening. We had about 35 folks show up for the screening and talk with Vanessa Roth, the filmmaker. Vanessa is really excited to be working with us, and she just recently won an Oscar for her film “Freeheld” in the documentary short category. She is very dedicated and passionate about education and is working on a future project with Dave Eggers and the McSweenys publishing and 826 Valencia folks on a piece called “The Teachers Project.” They are going to be getting teachers to submit videos and stories about their experiences- trials, tribulations, ups/downs, what sucks what doesn’t, why they love to teach. Then they are going to select stories and create another film from it. She likes us!
Overall this was an amazing summit. We had 5 different groups working on a variety of types of actions for the Right To Learn Statewide Day of Action on APRIL 18, 2008. Sign up your school today and speak out against the budget cuts!
If you want to learn more or get involved in any more of these events Youth Noise hosts, check out www.youthnoise.com/summit or email Lauren at lauren@youthnoise.org .
Monday, April 28, 2008
Friday, April 25, 2008
Muslim American Youth Speak Out
It's Video Friday, and today we have youth speaking out. Riz Khan talks to a panel of young American Muslims about the issues that most concern them. It is a longer video than usual, but well worth it in getting a feel for the perspective of American Muslim youth.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Creativity for the World of Youth
Who: 36 Youth's from Slovenia, Turkey, China and Vietnam
Age: Teens
What: "Creativity for the World of Youth".
This event gave the opportunity for these youth's to get creative and learn from each other. Reading this got me to thinking: in the near future, I hope more Intercultural Dialogue can include American Youths.
Youths join int'l project "Creativity for the World of Youth"
18:17' 22/04/2008 (GMT+7)
VietNamNet Bridge - Thirty six youths from Slovenia, Turkey, China and Vietnam had a chance to show their talent and solidarity in world youth spirit in a project called "Creativity for the World of Youth".
The project is a youth activity of youth of the European Union. The EU has designated 2008 as the year of Intercultural Dialogue. The project gave participants a chance to share experience and learn from each other. Creative and coordinated methods were applied for youths to learn skills and promote their activeness and ability.
Mr. Robert Krizanic from Slovenia, head of the project, said that he was very surprised at Vietnamese and Chinese youths' pleasure and enthusiasm toward the project. "They joined the project very quickly," he added. "I hope to see many other programs like this project for Asian and European youths to exchange and learn from each other."
A preparatory seminar was held in Shanghai, China in late February. The second phase of the project was held in Vietnam. Each country sent 9 youths to participate in the project.
Thirty six participants were divided into four small groups working in different activities such as painting, music, circus, puppetry and community games.
The groups visited and took part in youth activities in Hanoi, Quang Ninh and Hai Phong. They contributed ideas on developing street art, worked out activities for the project in Slovenia in August, and prepared for a project review in Izmit, Turkey which is expected to be held in late December.
Volken Muderrisoglu from Turkey and Wei Chao Bin from China said that members did not meet any obstacles even in such an international activity as all used English as a common language and they joined the project with a fervent spirit and enthusiasm and saw no big difference between Asia and Europe. "This is a great opportunity for us to know more about the cultures of other countries," they added.
This was also a good environment for youth and youth leaders to exchange knowledge in youth work. The project has introduced some new and effective tools to apply in youth work, including street arts and community painting.
Tran Anh Duc, 23 from Vietnam said: "I think programs like this are very practical. I have myself learned a lot from the project, and hope that Vietnamese youth will have more chances to integrate and learn more from international youths in the next steps of the project."
Although "Creativity for the World of Youth" is only in the second phase, it has greatly contributed to establishing long-term relationships and cooperation among international youth. It has created a foundation for regular and harmonious coordination in youth activities in each country.
Age: Teens
What: "Creativity for the World of Youth".
This event gave the opportunity for these youth's to get creative and learn from each other. Reading this got me to thinking: in the near future, I hope more Intercultural Dialogue can include American Youths.
Youths join int'l project "Creativity for the World of Youth"
18:17' 22/04/2008 (GMT+7)
VietNamNet Bridge - Thirty six youths from Slovenia, Turkey, China and Vietnam had a chance to show their talent and solidarity in world youth spirit in a project called "Creativity for the World of Youth".
The project is a youth activity of youth of the European Union. The EU has designated 2008 as the year of Intercultural Dialogue. The project gave participants a chance to share experience and learn from each other. Creative and coordinated methods were applied for youths to learn skills and promote their activeness and ability.
Mr. Robert Krizanic from Slovenia, head of the project, said that he was very surprised at Vietnamese and Chinese youths' pleasure and enthusiasm toward the project. "They joined the project very quickly," he added. "I hope to see many other programs like this project for Asian and European youths to exchange and learn from each other."
A preparatory seminar was held in Shanghai, China in late February. The second phase of the project was held in Vietnam. Each country sent 9 youths to participate in the project.
Thirty six participants were divided into four small groups working in different activities such as painting, music, circus, puppetry and community games.
The groups visited and took part in youth activities in Hanoi, Quang Ninh and Hai Phong. They contributed ideas on developing street art, worked out activities for the project in Slovenia in August, and prepared for a project review in Izmit, Turkey which is expected to be held in late December.
Volken Muderrisoglu from Turkey and Wei Chao Bin from China said that members did not meet any obstacles even in such an international activity as all used English as a common language and they joined the project with a fervent spirit and enthusiasm and saw no big difference between Asia and Europe. "This is a great opportunity for us to know more about the cultures of other countries," they added.
This was also a good environment for youth and youth leaders to exchange knowledge in youth work. The project has introduced some new and effective tools to apply in youth work, including street arts and community painting.
Tran Anh Duc, 23 from Vietnam said: "I think programs like this are very practical. I have myself learned a lot from the project, and hope that Vietnamese youth will have more chances to integrate and learn more from international youths in the next steps of the project."
Although "Creativity for the World of Youth" is only in the second phase, it has greatly contributed to establishing long-term relationships and cooperation among international youth. It has created a foundation for regular and harmonious coordination in youth activities in each country.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Salem Youth of the Year
Who: Ryan Frias
Age: 15
What: Salem Youth of the Year
Today's BIY story is a short article about Ryan Frias, who was recently named the Salem Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year.
Salem club's top youth already focused on giving back
By Amanda McGregor
Staff writer
—
SALEM — When Ryan Frias attended the Boys & Girls Club spring gala and auction last week, he didn't expect to be named Youth of the Year.
He was among four finalists who prepared acceptance speeches in advance, but, still, he didn't anticipate the win.
"I couldn't believe it," he said, recalling the moment his name was called. "My heart was pumping, and I had an adrenaline rush. I had good competition. I really didn't think I was going to win.
"It's indescribable."
Next, Ryan will compete in the regional Youth of the Year contest in May, which is followed by the nationals. The national winner is featured in the Boys & Girls Clubs of America magazine and serves as a representative for the national organization for a year. The state and national winners also receive college scholarships.
"It's an amazing opportunity for them," said AnnMarie Tanzella, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem. "We're always hearing about the tough challenges of kids, but we also want to share the successes."
Ryan, a freshman at Salem High School, started going to the Salem club when he was in sixth grade.
"I think that the Boys & Girls Club is the best thing in the world — it's done a lot for me," said Ryan, a lifelong Salem resident of the Point neighborhood. He attended elementary school at Nathaniel Bowditch School.
Ryan is captain of the club's traveling basketball team and works there as a junior staff member five afternoons a week, running tournaments and games in the gym and overseeing homework time, among other duties.
"(The club) made me more mature," said Ryan, 15. "They show me right from wrong, (and) I make better decisions. We do some great programs."
For the award, the staff targeted a group of about 10 children who are good role models and wrote essays about them and required the children to write essays about themselves.
Four finalists were selected and interviewed and wrote two essays, one about themselves and another about the club, according to Tanzella.
"We interview them each on their moral character, their life goals, education," Tanzella said, "and they needed to get a number of references."
The other finalists were Bonnibel Gonzalez, 15, Emiluis Perez, 16, and Lindsay Moreta, 15, who are all students at Salem High School, according to program director Jodi Sperling.
As for Ryan's goals?
"I want to be a child psychologist and open my own day care — and go to school for contracting so I can build the school," he said. "I want to combine (my interests). ... I want to open a place that's as good at the Boys & Girls Club."
Copyright © 1999-2008 cnhi, inc.
Age: 15
What: Salem Youth of the Year
Today's BIY story is a short article about Ryan Frias, who was recently named the Salem Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year.
Salem club's top youth already focused on giving back
By Amanda McGregor
Staff writer
—
SALEM — When Ryan Frias attended the Boys & Girls Club spring gala and auction last week, he didn't expect to be named Youth of the Year.
He was among four finalists who prepared acceptance speeches in advance, but, still, he didn't anticipate the win.
"I couldn't believe it," he said, recalling the moment his name was called. "My heart was pumping, and I had an adrenaline rush. I had good competition. I really didn't think I was going to win.
"It's indescribable."
Next, Ryan will compete in the regional Youth of the Year contest in May, which is followed by the nationals. The national winner is featured in the Boys & Girls Clubs of America magazine and serves as a representative for the national organization for a year. The state and national winners also receive college scholarships.
"It's an amazing opportunity for them," said AnnMarie Tanzella, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem. "We're always hearing about the tough challenges of kids, but we also want to share the successes."
Ryan, a freshman at Salem High School, started going to the Salem club when he was in sixth grade.
"I think that the Boys & Girls Club is the best thing in the world — it's done a lot for me," said Ryan, a lifelong Salem resident of the Point neighborhood. He attended elementary school at Nathaniel Bowditch School.
Ryan is captain of the club's traveling basketball team and works there as a junior staff member five afternoons a week, running tournaments and games in the gym and overseeing homework time, among other duties.
"(The club) made me more mature," said Ryan, 15. "They show me right from wrong, (and) I make better decisions. We do some great programs."
For the award, the staff targeted a group of about 10 children who are good role models and wrote essays about them and required the children to write essays about themselves.
Four finalists were selected and interviewed and wrote two essays, one about themselves and another about the club, according to Tanzella.
"We interview them each on their moral character, their life goals, education," Tanzella said, "and they needed to get a number of references."
The other finalists were Bonnibel Gonzalez, 15, Emiluis Perez, 16, and Lindsay Moreta, 15, who are all students at Salem High School, according to program director Jodi Sperling.
As for Ryan's goals?
"I want to be a child psychologist and open my own day care — and go to school for contracting so I can build the school," he said. "I want to combine (my interests). ... I want to open a place that's as good at the Boys & Girls Club."
Copyright © 1999-2008 cnhi, inc.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Video Friday: Young People Who Rock
Who: Lindsay Avner
Age: 25
What: Young People Who Rock
CNN anchor, Nicole Lapin interviews Linsday Avner, founder of Bright Pink in her weekly interview series, Young People Who Rock. The 23 year old volunteered to get a double mastectomy because virtually every woman in her life, her mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunts and cousins, suffered from or died of breast cancer.
Avner took control of her own destiny after a blood test revealed she had a genetic predisposition to the disease. She didn't want to live in fear. The series, Young People Who Rock, is focused on people under 30 -- from CEOs to entertainers to athletes to community and political leaders -- who are doing remarkable things.
Age: 25
What: Young People Who Rock
CNN anchor, Nicole Lapin interviews Linsday Avner, founder of Bright Pink in her weekly interview series, Young People Who Rock. The 23 year old volunteered to get a double mastectomy because virtually every woman in her life, her mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunts and cousins, suffered from or died of breast cancer.
Avner took control of her own destiny after a blood test revealed she had a genetic predisposition to the disease. She didn't want to live in fear. The series, Young People Who Rock, is focused on people under 30 -- from CEOs to entertainers to athletes to community and political leaders -- who are doing remarkable things.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Uniting to Shape the Future
Who: Local Students in Howard County
Age: Students
What: Uniting to shape the future
Local students in Howard County at a summit sponsored by Voices of Change gather together to make their voices heard. The summit was focused on encouraging youth to make a difference and teaching them how to build a good community around them. This story can be found at The Baltimore Sun.
Local students unite to shape the future
Voices for Change focuses on positive change
By Lisa Silverman
Sun reporter
April 16, 2008
"Students already have voices," said Andrew Gavelek, student member of the Howard County Board of Education. "It's just a matter of using them."
About 160 students from 29 middle and high schools had their voices heard last week at the second Youth Summit at The Gathering Place in Clarksville. The summit was sponsored by Voices for Change, an organization of young people and adults that empowers students to create positive change in Howard County, according to its mission statement.
Brianna Bradford, a junior at Reservoir High School, has served as the student co-chair of Voices for Change, formerly known as the Youth Summit Planning Committee, for the past two years.
"It has taken a lot of effort to build a good foundation for this group," she said. "I'm really excited about the progress we've made and hope more students want to be involved in helping us advocate change."
Elise Mellinger, youth program manager for the Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks and adult co-chair, was one of about 40 adults -- planning team members and school staff -- who attended the summit.
"It's great to have such a diverse representation today," Mellinger said. "I think it's very important that different types of students can learn how to advocate for change."
Last year's summit focused on brainstorming solutions to five issues that teens face. This year the summit centered on empowering youth to make a difference and to teach them about building a support system within the community.
Youth advocate Derek Peterson, the keynote speaker at the summit, urged the attendees to look within themselves and to strive for positive community change. He stressed that success means having multiple options. Peterson wanted the students to understand the importance of having at least five caring adults in their lives to serve as anchors.
"I wanted to teach the students to create their web of support that will lead to their innate resiliency," Peterson said after his address. "It's equally important that they help their peers build 'personal villages' as well."
"I learned that you need help taking care of yourself," said Sadie Rockefeller, an eighth-grader at Burleigh Manor Middle School. "You need support and can't do it on your own."
"Today was all about having your voice heard. I want to let people know that's a reality," said Marie Yuille, a sophomore at Oakland Mills High School.
The 60-person planning team spent about a year planning the summit, while working to make changes in the community that directly affect teens. As a result of their efforts, students in many high schools now have a regular study hall. Also, preliminary plans are being discussed for a youth commission in Howard County.
After attending last year's summit, Sami Hawkins realized her voice could finally be heard.
"I've always wanted to help improve the community, but I've never known how," said Hawkins, a sophomore at Centennial High School and a planning team member. "It's great that anyone can get involved and make a difference. Everyone's voice is needed."
Twelve community-based organizations sponsored the summit. Howard County Councilwomen Jen Terrasa and Mary Kay Sigaty attended as well.
"I hope kids learned how to use their voice today," Sigaty said.
For more information about Voices for Change, contact Elise Mellinger at emellinger@howardcountymd.gov or Meg Mekelburg at mmekelburg@thehorizonfoundation.org.
Copyright © 2008, The Baltimore Sun
Age: Students
What: Uniting to shape the future
Local students in Howard County at a summit sponsored by Voices of Change gather together to make their voices heard. The summit was focused on encouraging youth to make a difference and teaching them how to build a good community around them. This story can be found at The Baltimore Sun.
Local students unite to shape the future
Voices for Change focuses on positive change
By Lisa Silverman
Sun reporter
April 16, 2008
"Students already have voices," said Andrew Gavelek, student member of the Howard County Board of Education. "It's just a matter of using them."
About 160 students from 29 middle and high schools had their voices heard last week at the second Youth Summit at The Gathering Place in Clarksville. The summit was sponsored by Voices for Change, an organization of young people and adults that empowers students to create positive change in Howard County, according to its mission statement.
Brianna Bradford, a junior at Reservoir High School, has served as the student co-chair of Voices for Change, formerly known as the Youth Summit Planning Committee, for the past two years.
"It has taken a lot of effort to build a good foundation for this group," she said. "I'm really excited about the progress we've made and hope more students want to be involved in helping us advocate change."
Elise Mellinger, youth program manager for the Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks and adult co-chair, was one of about 40 adults -- planning team members and school staff -- who attended the summit.
"It's great to have such a diverse representation today," Mellinger said. "I think it's very important that different types of students can learn how to advocate for change."
Last year's summit focused on brainstorming solutions to five issues that teens face. This year the summit centered on empowering youth to make a difference and to teach them about building a support system within the community.
Youth advocate Derek Peterson, the keynote speaker at the summit, urged the attendees to look within themselves and to strive for positive community change. He stressed that success means having multiple options. Peterson wanted the students to understand the importance of having at least five caring adults in their lives to serve as anchors.
"I wanted to teach the students to create their web of support that will lead to their innate resiliency," Peterson said after his address. "It's equally important that they help their peers build 'personal villages' as well."
"I learned that you need help taking care of yourself," said Sadie Rockefeller, an eighth-grader at Burleigh Manor Middle School. "You need support and can't do it on your own."
"Today was all about having your voice heard. I want to let people know that's a reality," said Marie Yuille, a sophomore at Oakland Mills High School.
The 60-person planning team spent about a year planning the summit, while working to make changes in the community that directly affect teens. As a result of their efforts, students in many high schools now have a regular study hall. Also, preliminary plans are being discussed for a youth commission in Howard County.
After attending last year's summit, Sami Hawkins realized her voice could finally be heard.
"I've always wanted to help improve the community, but I've never known how," said Hawkins, a sophomore at Centennial High School and a planning team member. "It's great that anyone can get involved and make a difference. Everyone's voice is needed."
Twelve community-based organizations sponsored the summit. Howard County Councilwomen Jen Terrasa and Mary Kay Sigaty attended as well.
"I hope kids learned how to use their voice today," Sigaty said.
For more information about Voices for Change, contact Elise Mellinger at emellinger@howardcountymd.gov or Meg Mekelburg at mmekelburg@thehorizonfoundation.org.
Copyright © 2008, The Baltimore Sun
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Into Darfur: A Young American's Journey
Who: Nick Anderson
Age: 18
What: Oxfam Humanitarian Youth Ambassador
Who says we can't play videos on Sunday?
Returning with first hand accounts on what it's like to live in Darfur, 18-year old Nick Anderson, Oxfam Humanitarian Youth Ambassador, says more Americans -- particularly young Americans -- must learn about the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in Darfur and help support those who will be struggling to rebuild their lives and their homes.
To learn more, visit http://www.oxfamamerica.org/darfur
Age: 18
What: Oxfam Humanitarian Youth Ambassador
Who says we can't play videos on Sunday?
Returning with first hand accounts on what it's like to live in Darfur, 18-year old Nick Anderson, Oxfam Humanitarian Youth Ambassador, says more Americans -- particularly young Americans -- must learn about the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in Darfur and help support those who will be struggling to rebuild their lives and their homes.
To learn more, visit http://www.oxfamamerica.org/darfur
Friday, April 11, 2008
Young People Who Rock!
Nicole Lapin - Young People Who Rock - Haley Kilpatrick
CNN anchor, Nicole Lapin interviews the founder of Girl Talk, Haley Kilpatrick in her weekly interview series, Young People Who Rock. Girl talk is an organization that encourages candid converstaion, independence, and self worth. The series, Young People Who Rock, is focused on people under 30 -- from CEOs to entertainers to athletes to community and political leaders -- who are doing remarkable things.
CNN anchor, Nicole Lapin interviews the founder of Girl Talk, Haley Kilpatrick in her weekly interview series, Young People Who Rock. Girl talk is an organization that encourages candid converstaion, independence, and self worth. The series, Young People Who Rock, is focused on people under 30 -- from CEOs to entertainers to athletes to community and political leaders -- who are doing remarkable things.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Special People Helping Others
Who: Zachary Peskin
Age: 16
What: Started Special People Helping Others
Zachary Peskin's older brother suffers from Autism. Zachary got motivated to start SpPHO when he noticed the greatest joy his brother got was helping others. The article is a short read and you can find it at http://ypwr.blogs.cnn.com/. Also make sure to check out the live interview with Zachary on CNN.com at 3:30 pm!!
Zachary Peskin
Posted: 10:21 AM ET
Zachary Peskin, right, and his brother Adam discuss the Special Business Partners Program with a retailer.
It's Autism Awareness Month, but for people who have autism or live with someone who does, they are aware every day. Zachary Peskin, 16, decided not only to be aware but also to be active.
Zachary's older brother, Adam, is autistic. After years of watching others serve Adam, Zachary noticed that his brother's greatest joy came from helping others. It was the little things: from setting the table to setting up events at the local community center. Last year, it hit Zachary — if his brother could give back a little, then the opportunity for the developmentally disabled community to give back collectively was great.
Last year, Zachary started Special People Helping Others, or SpPHO. Group members attend SpPHO-sponsored activities and community events to sell 3-for-1 Bracelets. It's called the 3-for-1 because for every bracelet sold, three causes can be helped: SpPHO, Meals on Wheels and Doctors Without Borders, an international medical and humanitarian aid organization. SpPHO is a group that helps people such as Zachary's brother by letting them help others.
What would you ask Zachary? Submit your questions as comments below or send in a question on video to iReport.com. Then look for your questions during the CNN.com Live interview Friday, April 11, at 3:30 p.m. ET.
Age: 16
What: Started Special People Helping Others
Zachary Peskin's older brother suffers from Autism. Zachary got motivated to start SpPHO when he noticed the greatest joy his brother got was helping others. The article is a short read and you can find it at http://ypwr.blogs.cnn.com/. Also make sure to check out the live interview with Zachary on CNN.com at 3:30 pm!!
Zachary Peskin
Posted: 10:21 AM ET
Zachary Peskin, right, and his brother Adam discuss the Special Business Partners Program with a retailer.
It's Autism Awareness Month, but for people who have autism or live with someone who does, they are aware every day. Zachary Peskin, 16, decided not only to be aware but also to be active.
Zachary's older brother, Adam, is autistic. After years of watching others serve Adam, Zachary noticed that his brother's greatest joy came from helping others. It was the little things: from setting the table to setting up events at the local community center. Last year, it hit Zachary — if his brother could give back a little, then the opportunity for the developmentally disabled community to give back collectively was great.
Last year, Zachary started Special People Helping Others, or SpPHO. Group members attend SpPHO-sponsored activities and community events to sell 3-for-1 Bracelets. It's called the 3-for-1 because for every bracelet sold, three causes can be helped: SpPHO, Meals on Wheels and Doctors Without Borders, an international medical and humanitarian aid organization. SpPHO is a group that helps people such as Zachary's brother by letting them help others.
What would you ask Zachary? Submit your questions as comments below or send in a question on video to iReport.com. Then look for your questions during the CNN.com Live interview Friday, April 11, at 3:30 p.m. ET.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
The World We Want
Who: Youth around the world
Age: 15-21
What: UNICEF Voices of Youth: The World We Want
UNICEF- In May 2002, the countries of the world met in New York to decide what should be done to improve the lives of children. At this landmark meeting – the UN General Assembly Special Session on Children (SSC) – the nations of the world committed themselves to a series of goals to improve the situation of children and young people. The new global agenda – a document called ‘A World Fit for Children’ - describes the promises made by governments to improve the lives of children from 2002-2012. In December 2007, world leaders will meet once again in New York to review progress made towards creating a better world for children. This month’s issue of “What Young People Are Saying” is dedicated to how young people view their world and how “fit” they think it really is (December 2007).
THE WORLD WE WANT
OVERVIEW
With the Special Session +5 Review taking place this month, young people are discussing the current state of the world as they see it, and the progress that has been achieved in the five years since the Special Session of 2002. Young people are aware that since the Special Session, millions of young lives have been saved: Global child deaths have reached a record low, falling to 9.7 million, down from almost 13 million in 1990; more children than ever are in school and more children are actively involved in decisions concerning their lives. However, they are also aware that too many children still die of preventable diseases, go hungry, are denied their right to an education or are forced into early marriage or hazardous work. Too many children are devastated by armed conflict, the sale and trafficking of children, or other forms of abuse and violence. Too many children have been orphaned or made vulnerable by HIV and AIDS. And too many of them will never experience a childhood.
Despite feeling that not enough has been done, VOY members are quick to point out that they have not lost hope. They believe progress for children and the achievement of the goals of the Special Session - a stepping stone towards realizing the Millennium Development Goals - are still possible. They stress that if the world is going to be truly fit for children, it is going to require action not just by governments and by organizations, but by families, communities and individuals, including young people themselves.
SOUTH AFRICA
“Personally, I feel that this world has let us down, but we can't sit around and complain all day. Children all over the world are dying… and the worst thing is that help is either always too late or it simply never arrives. My wish is that young people all over the world will pull together and achieve these goals.”
Female, 18
So, on the fifth anniversary of the SSC, how far have we come? What problems still exist? What can be done to build a world fit for children? Read on to find out what young people are saying.
THE MAIN PRIORITIES
Voices of Youth members recognize that all children have fundamental rights: the right to health and nutrition, to an education, to clean water and adequate sanitation, to gender equality and to freedom from exploitation and abuse. Moreover, children have a right to a name and a nationality - as well as to express themselves freely and to participate in decisions that affect them. They are also aware of the extent to which poverty, HIV/AIDS, conflict and discrimination negatively impact the lives of children and adolescents. In fact, young people single out poverty as the root cause of many problems. They point out that poverty prevents children from attaining basic rights such as the right to a healthy life and the right to an education.
OMAN
“I think there are many problems facing children and I think the three most important ones are poverty, getting a proper education, and living in a safe house with their families or people who truly care about them.” Female, 15
PHILIPPINES
“Poverty is one of the greatest problems that the world is facing today. Everywhere you look there's always a sign of it. Just look down the side streets and there you'll find many men, women, and children wearing tattered clothes, braving the scorching heat of the day and the freezing cold of the night. They have no where to go to, no one to run to.” Female, 17
Young people see education as a basic human right, vital to personal and societal development and well being. They believe that all children should be entitled to quality, free education, but sadly acknowledge that it is still a distant dream for millions of children all over the world, especially for girls, for those in rural areas, those of poorer families and those living in conflict zones.
NIGERIA
“Education is a major problem in my country...On the streets you see small children selling all kind of things … in order to provide a little income for their family; because of this, these children miss school. Sometimes I wonder where most of our future leaders will come from because most of the children are on the streets doing odd jobs instead of going to school.” Female, 15
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
“How can a young child concentrate on lessons when he is starving?” Female, 15
Many members point out that higher education is inaccessible to many young people around the world because of the high cost.
IRAQ
“Young people cannot continue their education for many reasons, one of the most important is war and conflict. But in addition, young people cannot continue their higher education because of the high cost. I know many friends who have had to drop out of university because they cannot afford it. There should be a group effort to enable young people to continue their education.”Male
VOY members consider lack of protection as one of the major obstacles that needs to be overcome if the world is to be made a better place. They wonder how the education goals of “A World Fit for Children” can be achieved, for example, if children still have to work to survive.
SIERRA LEONE
“I do believe education is a basic human right. If all the rich and poor can have quality education then we can say we would be able to meet the MDGs. But I have a very strong reservation about meeting the time frame. Poor people are more concerned with getting daily bread, so they prefer to send their kids to work than to school. If they send their kids to school they are sure to die of hunger.” Male, > 21
They believe that challenges persist in many areas, including the use of children in armed conflict, harmful traditional practices such as female genital mutilation, trafficking and sexual exploitation.
JORDAN
“Personally, I think it's shameful that in the 21st century, with all the so-called advancement and promises made by the international community, children continue to suffer because of war. They are forced to fight; they are killed, tortured and maimed; they are imprisoned, uprooted and orphaned. And then we have the audacity to call ourselves "human" beings. Worst of all, the situation just seems to get worse and worse.” Female, 19
REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA
“Nothing is being done by anyone to stop human trafficking and sexual exploitation. …I've heard some really sad stories about it. VERY SAD, but big money is involved in this business, that's why no one is interested in stopping it.” Female, > 21
UNITED KINGDOM
“Child prostitution is a growing problem worldwide. …. And indications are that in every part of the world the number of children being harmed in this way is growing. Child prostitutes are found in virtually every country. There is an apparent increasing demand globally; part of it fed by the fear of AIDS and the naive belief that younger sex partners are free of disease.” Male, > 21
SAUDI ARABIA
“Don’t you think that subjecting a girl to female genital mutilation is one of the biggest human rights violations, a great crime? Girls as young as seven have bled to death as a result of this procedure. It is not an excuse that it is a tradition. Traditions as harmful as this should be abolished. We have to make people understand that it is okay to abandon such traditions.” Female
VOY members are acutely aware that HIV/AIDS is an epidemic that continues to devastate families, communities and even whole continents. They believe that the rate of infection with HIV is still very high, and point out that preventing new HIV infections is key to controlling the epidemic.
KENYA
“Today’s youth are the AIDS generation; they have never known a world without HIV. Millions have died, yet the epidemic remains largely invisible to adults and even to young people themselves.” Male, 20
They point out that many countries other than those in Africa have a high incidence of HIV/AIDS and are concerned that they these countries are being overlooked.
CANADA
“…Every time we talk about AIDS, the first thing to come up is Africa. Yes! It is a VERY huge problem in African and 3rd world nations…In reality AIDS is affecting ALL nations, even nations with advanced medical facilities like Canada and the United States…” Female, 21
While some VOY members indicate that there is a lack of information in their countries, others are worried that an overload of information has had a negative impact on efforts to combat the disease.
AUSTRALIA
“It is a tough situation when people become tired of hearing about such an important and fatal issue such as HIV/AIDS. From what I have gathered, they are sick of hearing about it, thus no longer caring.” Male, 17
PROGRESS MADE
Despite expressing their grave concern for the present state of the world’s children, most young people acknowledge that some progress has been achieved in realizing the commitments set out in “A World Fit for Children”.
They see that the first duty toward children is to ensure that they survive. Many young people believe that significant efforts have been made to promote healthy lives.
JORDAN
“I am proud of what my country has done to make life better for children. It has provided universal health insurance coverage for all children under six and it provides childhood vaccines free of charge.” Male, 17
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
“From the time a child is still in the mother's womb, until the person is old, there is free health care. The government is even willing to send patients overseas if no such treatment is available locally.” Male, 19
VOY members stress that all children should have access to and complete primary education that is free, compulsory and of good quality. They point out some interventions taken by their governments to help improve access and retention.
MALAYSIA
“In some schools in Malaysia there is a Milk Scheme and Pocket Money Programme giving money and milk to impoverished children.” Male
MEXICO
“The government of my country has begun giving more scholarships for children so that they can continue their studies instead of going to work.” Female, 17
BOTSWANA
”With regard to education our government fought for, and actually achieved, 100% access to education for BOTH females and males... It is worth noting that the Ministry of Education, in partnership with a UNICEF-initiated Female-Male Education Movement, is currently campaigning for rights-based and gender-sensitive schools. Male, 20
The right of all children to be protected against all forms of violence, discrimination, exploitation and abuse is something young people feel very strongly about. They believe that protecting children from violence, exploitation and abuse is an integral component of protecting their rights to survival, growth and development. While the majority believes that gross violations are still being committed, some point out that some effort is being made to better protect children.
LESOTHO
“A world fit for children is a world fit for everyone! My country has endeavored to make this real by introducing free primary education. It has also invited children to have a say in the reformation of the Children's Protection Act of 1980.” Male 20
MEXICO
“I think that even if things are being done to ensure a safe environment for children, the Mexican government still has a lot to do to achieve this goal.” Female, 17
As for combating HIV/AIDS, young people acknowledge that progress has been made, but believe there is room for improvement. In addition, they seem baffled that despite all efforts aimed at reducing HIV infection, children and their families continue to suffer from the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS as it continues to ravage large parts of the world today.
MALAWI
“I come from Malawi, where HIV/AIDS is a major problem….We have a lot of foreign aid and the government is pouring money into the country to fight this pandemic and there are scores of campaigns targeted at just everyone imaginable, particularly at grassroots level so that people get the message. But this is proving fruitless, with the numbers of people catching the virus still increasing.” Male
They also mention some strategies implemented by their governments to reduce the spread of the disease.
MALAYSIA
“The government has started a programme where most medical centers will offer free unused/new syringes for drug addicts to prevent the sharing of syringes, which could lead to AIDS.” Male
WAYS FORWARD
There is a palpable sense of urgency when young people debate what needs to be done to make up for lost time, and march towards the goals intended to make the world a better place for ALL children. Though undoubtedly aware of the serious plight of children in poorer parts of the world, young people also point out that it is not only children in third world countries that are being denied their rights.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
“I live in a developed country, so my country never does much. They figure they don't need to. It’s pretty sad.” Female
Despite young people’s confidence in themselves and their ability to make change, participants recognize the key role of parents, governments and other decision makers in fulfilling the promises made to children. They also call on adults to involve young people in matters that concern them.
GHANA
“Most of the times all our leaders do about children’s issues is to make promises and read us long speeches. It is high time they are called to act ... To achieve the Millennium Development Goals, all of us will have to work hand in hand irrespective of who is an adult and who is a child. The children have to be consulted and accepted as partners on issues concerning them. The child cannot wait.” Female, 18
MEXICO
“We, young people, are generally seen as a burden because the government has to invest in us without seeing immediate payback; however, with a little help from adults, that changes. When adults or the government … give us opportunity to do so, we do make a change and are actually able to help adults ensure a safe environment for children.” Female, 17
VOY members offer simple but practical suggestions to improve the situation for children and young people. For example, they point out that for poorer countries, debt repayment is a major obstacle to investment in basic services, especially those targeting children. They believe that debt relief should be more generous.
NEW ZEALAND
“One of the main sources of poverty in my opinion is debt. To pay back the money, many governments are making cuts on social spending like education. Developed countries need to forgive the debt before change can start being made.” Female, 18
They believe that richest countries should increase their assistance to the poorest countries.
SINGAPORE
“I strongly feel that less fortunate countries should be aided by developed countries and other international organizations such as the UN. Otherwise, the poor will become poorer and the rich will become richer.” Female, 17
NORWAY
“There are enough resources in this world to supply all, but the wealth is so unfairly distributed: some have nothing while others have way too much! If we all stand together we CAN make a difference, we just need to make the governments in the industrialized countries realize that they have to help make this world a better place.” Female, 19
Young people believe that corporate initiatives can play an important role in alleviating poverty and helping achieve a better world for children.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
“Many businesses claim they are helping countries secure clean water for their people, or provide affordable electricity… businesses have the resources and power in various countries to make change possible.” Male, > 21
Young people believe that it is the government’s responsibility first and foremost to provide education to its citizens. They suggest that they need to invest more in education to ensure Access for All. They point out that it would be much wiser if money were spent on education instead of weapons of destruction
INDIA
“Education is the best way to eradicate the problems of poverty, unemployment, and ethnic conflicts. It shouldn’t be a dream for education to be free. If a country can spend huge amounts of money on missiles........why not divert that money for the betterment of the people?” Female, 20
Young people stress that no form of violence against children is justifiable. They point out effective ways to prevent and respond to violence, abuse and exploitation, such as including programmes to support parenting skills; programmes to improve school environment; increasing accountability for perpetrators, and for young people themselves to campaign against all forms of violence and abuse.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
“For instance, we could start writing letters to government officials. Start showing advertisements on television. We could start handing out flyers. The more people that know about it, the more government officials will be alert about it.” Female, > 21
Although there has been significant progress in fighting HIV/AIDS, VOY members are aware that children and youth are still missing out. They share many ideas on combating HIV/AIDS and mitigating the effects of the disease on children, including improving awareness of this global pandemic, encouraging community participation, increasing access to treatment and reducing the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.
TUNISIA
“We would have less of a problem if we had sex education in class, if we had easy access to contraception and especially condoms, if the government gave free AIDS tests, if society did not shun those with HIV, if people were actually aware of what exactly AIDS is.” Female
Young people believe that they themselves are the greatest asset towards making the world a better place. Every little bit counts!
IRAQ
“We can be the change we want to see in the world ...and a thousand mile journey begins with one step.” Female, 20
CANADA
“It is totally up to us to make these things come true. Let’s make the Millennium Development Goals happen! Let’s build a school in a poor country; dig a well; sponsor a child; demonstrate peace, tolerance and love; be an example for others.” Female, 19
CONCLUSION
Five years after the Special Session on Children, Most VOY members believe there is still a chance that the promises made to children at the historic event of 2002 can still be fulfilled; however, they are adamant that the only way to move forward is for all stakeholders to join together, including young people themselves, in what they believe will surely be a struggle to reach the finish line. It is clear from the discussion boards that young people around the world are committed, now more than ever, to achieving the objectives that will make their world what they want it to be. To them, failure to achieve the goals of “A World Fit for Children” is simply not an option. They have a crystal clear image of the world that they want and they are out to get it!
GHANA
“A world fit for children is a world where every child has enough good food to eat every single day; a world where children are supported to achieve their ambitions no matter what they are; a world where children have never heard the sound of a gun or have ever seen one; a world where every single child is filled with joy and plenty of happiness; and most important of it all, a world where children can go to school every single day.” Male
For more information contact:
Maria Cristina Gallegos
Voices of Youth Coordinator Adolescent Development & Participation Unit (ADAP), Programme Division
voy@unicef.org
Age: 15-21
What: UNICEF Voices of Youth: The World We Want
UNICEF- In May 2002, the countries of the world met in New York to decide what should be done to improve the lives of children. At this landmark meeting – the UN General Assembly Special Session on Children (SSC) – the nations of the world committed themselves to a series of goals to improve the situation of children and young people. The new global agenda – a document called ‘A World Fit for Children’ - describes the promises made by governments to improve the lives of children from 2002-2012. In December 2007, world leaders will meet once again in New York to review progress made towards creating a better world for children. This month’s issue of “What Young People Are Saying” is dedicated to how young people view their world and how “fit” they think it really is (December 2007).
THE WORLD WE WANT
OVERVIEW
With the Special Session +5 Review taking place this month, young people are discussing the current state of the world as they see it, and the progress that has been achieved in the five years since the Special Session of 2002. Young people are aware that since the Special Session, millions of young lives have been saved: Global child deaths have reached a record low, falling to 9.7 million, down from almost 13 million in 1990; more children than ever are in school and more children are actively involved in decisions concerning their lives. However, they are also aware that too many children still die of preventable diseases, go hungry, are denied their right to an education or are forced into early marriage or hazardous work. Too many children are devastated by armed conflict, the sale and trafficking of children, or other forms of abuse and violence. Too many children have been orphaned or made vulnerable by HIV and AIDS. And too many of them will never experience a childhood.
Despite feeling that not enough has been done, VOY members are quick to point out that they have not lost hope. They believe progress for children and the achievement of the goals of the Special Session - a stepping stone towards realizing the Millennium Development Goals - are still possible. They stress that if the world is going to be truly fit for children, it is going to require action not just by governments and by organizations, but by families, communities and individuals, including young people themselves.
SOUTH AFRICA
“Personally, I feel that this world has let us down, but we can't sit around and complain all day. Children all over the world are dying… and the worst thing is that help is either always too late or it simply never arrives. My wish is that young people all over the world will pull together and achieve these goals.”
Female, 18
So, on the fifth anniversary of the SSC, how far have we come? What problems still exist? What can be done to build a world fit for children? Read on to find out what young people are saying.
THE MAIN PRIORITIES
Voices of Youth members recognize that all children have fundamental rights: the right to health and nutrition, to an education, to clean water and adequate sanitation, to gender equality and to freedom from exploitation and abuse. Moreover, children have a right to a name and a nationality - as well as to express themselves freely and to participate in decisions that affect them. They are also aware of the extent to which poverty, HIV/AIDS, conflict and discrimination negatively impact the lives of children and adolescents. In fact, young people single out poverty as the root cause of many problems. They point out that poverty prevents children from attaining basic rights such as the right to a healthy life and the right to an education.
OMAN
“I think there are many problems facing children and I think the three most important ones are poverty, getting a proper education, and living in a safe house with their families or people who truly care about them.” Female, 15
PHILIPPINES
“Poverty is one of the greatest problems that the world is facing today. Everywhere you look there's always a sign of it. Just look down the side streets and there you'll find many men, women, and children wearing tattered clothes, braving the scorching heat of the day and the freezing cold of the night. They have no where to go to, no one to run to.” Female, 17
Young people see education as a basic human right, vital to personal and societal development and well being. They believe that all children should be entitled to quality, free education, but sadly acknowledge that it is still a distant dream for millions of children all over the world, especially for girls, for those in rural areas, those of poorer families and those living in conflict zones.
NIGERIA
“Education is a major problem in my country...On the streets you see small children selling all kind of things … in order to provide a little income for their family; because of this, these children miss school. Sometimes I wonder where most of our future leaders will come from because most of the children are on the streets doing odd jobs instead of going to school.” Female, 15
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
“How can a young child concentrate on lessons when he is starving?” Female, 15
Many members point out that higher education is inaccessible to many young people around the world because of the high cost.
IRAQ
“Young people cannot continue their education for many reasons, one of the most important is war and conflict. But in addition, young people cannot continue their higher education because of the high cost. I know many friends who have had to drop out of university because they cannot afford it. There should be a group effort to enable young people to continue their education.”Male
VOY members consider lack of protection as one of the major obstacles that needs to be overcome if the world is to be made a better place. They wonder how the education goals of “A World Fit for Children” can be achieved, for example, if children still have to work to survive.
SIERRA LEONE
“I do believe education is a basic human right. If all the rich and poor can have quality education then we can say we would be able to meet the MDGs. But I have a very strong reservation about meeting the time frame. Poor people are more concerned with getting daily bread, so they prefer to send their kids to work than to school. If they send their kids to school they are sure to die of hunger.” Male, > 21
They believe that challenges persist in many areas, including the use of children in armed conflict, harmful traditional practices such as female genital mutilation, trafficking and sexual exploitation.
JORDAN
“Personally, I think it's shameful that in the 21st century, with all the so-called advancement and promises made by the international community, children continue to suffer because of war. They are forced to fight; they are killed, tortured and maimed; they are imprisoned, uprooted and orphaned. And then we have the audacity to call ourselves "human" beings. Worst of all, the situation just seems to get worse and worse.” Female, 19
REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA
“Nothing is being done by anyone to stop human trafficking and sexual exploitation. …I've heard some really sad stories about it. VERY SAD, but big money is involved in this business, that's why no one is interested in stopping it.” Female, > 21
UNITED KINGDOM
“Child prostitution is a growing problem worldwide. …. And indications are that in every part of the world the number of children being harmed in this way is growing. Child prostitutes are found in virtually every country. There is an apparent increasing demand globally; part of it fed by the fear of AIDS and the naive belief that younger sex partners are free of disease.” Male, > 21
SAUDI ARABIA
“Don’t you think that subjecting a girl to female genital mutilation is one of the biggest human rights violations, a great crime? Girls as young as seven have bled to death as a result of this procedure. It is not an excuse that it is a tradition. Traditions as harmful as this should be abolished. We have to make people understand that it is okay to abandon such traditions.” Female
VOY members are acutely aware that HIV/AIDS is an epidemic that continues to devastate families, communities and even whole continents. They believe that the rate of infection with HIV is still very high, and point out that preventing new HIV infections is key to controlling the epidemic.
KENYA
“Today’s youth are the AIDS generation; they have never known a world without HIV. Millions have died, yet the epidemic remains largely invisible to adults and even to young people themselves.” Male, 20
They point out that many countries other than those in Africa have a high incidence of HIV/AIDS and are concerned that they these countries are being overlooked.
CANADA
“…Every time we talk about AIDS, the first thing to come up is Africa. Yes! It is a VERY huge problem in African and 3rd world nations…In reality AIDS is affecting ALL nations, even nations with advanced medical facilities like Canada and the United States…” Female, 21
While some VOY members indicate that there is a lack of information in their countries, others are worried that an overload of information has had a negative impact on efforts to combat the disease.
AUSTRALIA
“It is a tough situation when people become tired of hearing about such an important and fatal issue such as HIV/AIDS. From what I have gathered, they are sick of hearing about it, thus no longer caring.” Male, 17
PROGRESS MADE
Despite expressing their grave concern for the present state of the world’s children, most young people acknowledge that some progress has been achieved in realizing the commitments set out in “A World Fit for Children”.
They see that the first duty toward children is to ensure that they survive. Many young people believe that significant efforts have been made to promote healthy lives.
JORDAN
“I am proud of what my country has done to make life better for children. It has provided universal health insurance coverage for all children under six and it provides childhood vaccines free of charge.” Male, 17
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
“From the time a child is still in the mother's womb, until the person is old, there is free health care. The government is even willing to send patients overseas if no such treatment is available locally.” Male, 19
VOY members stress that all children should have access to and complete primary education that is free, compulsory and of good quality. They point out some interventions taken by their governments to help improve access and retention.
MALAYSIA
“In some schools in Malaysia there is a Milk Scheme and Pocket Money Programme giving money and milk to impoverished children.” Male
MEXICO
“The government of my country has begun giving more scholarships for children so that they can continue their studies instead of going to work.” Female, 17
BOTSWANA
”With regard to education our government fought for, and actually achieved, 100% access to education for BOTH females and males... It is worth noting that the Ministry of Education, in partnership with a UNICEF-initiated Female-Male Education Movement, is currently campaigning for rights-based and gender-sensitive schools. Male, 20
The right of all children to be protected against all forms of violence, discrimination, exploitation and abuse is something young people feel very strongly about. They believe that protecting children from violence, exploitation and abuse is an integral component of protecting their rights to survival, growth and development. While the majority believes that gross violations are still being committed, some point out that some effort is being made to better protect children.
LESOTHO
“A world fit for children is a world fit for everyone! My country has endeavored to make this real by introducing free primary education. It has also invited children to have a say in the reformation of the Children's Protection Act of 1980.” Male 20
MEXICO
“I think that even if things are being done to ensure a safe environment for children, the Mexican government still has a lot to do to achieve this goal.” Female, 17
As for combating HIV/AIDS, young people acknowledge that progress has been made, but believe there is room for improvement. In addition, they seem baffled that despite all efforts aimed at reducing HIV infection, children and their families continue to suffer from the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS as it continues to ravage large parts of the world today.
MALAWI
“I come from Malawi, where HIV/AIDS is a major problem….We have a lot of foreign aid and the government is pouring money into the country to fight this pandemic and there are scores of campaigns targeted at just everyone imaginable, particularly at grassroots level so that people get the message. But this is proving fruitless, with the numbers of people catching the virus still increasing.” Male
They also mention some strategies implemented by their governments to reduce the spread of the disease.
MALAYSIA
“The government has started a programme where most medical centers will offer free unused/new syringes for drug addicts to prevent the sharing of syringes, which could lead to AIDS.” Male
WAYS FORWARD
There is a palpable sense of urgency when young people debate what needs to be done to make up for lost time, and march towards the goals intended to make the world a better place for ALL children. Though undoubtedly aware of the serious plight of children in poorer parts of the world, young people also point out that it is not only children in third world countries that are being denied their rights.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
“I live in a developed country, so my country never does much. They figure they don't need to. It’s pretty sad.” Female
Despite young people’s confidence in themselves and their ability to make change, participants recognize the key role of parents, governments and other decision makers in fulfilling the promises made to children. They also call on adults to involve young people in matters that concern them.
GHANA
“Most of the times all our leaders do about children’s issues is to make promises and read us long speeches. It is high time they are called to act ... To achieve the Millennium Development Goals, all of us will have to work hand in hand irrespective of who is an adult and who is a child. The children have to be consulted and accepted as partners on issues concerning them. The child cannot wait.” Female, 18
MEXICO
“We, young people, are generally seen as a burden because the government has to invest in us without seeing immediate payback; however, with a little help from adults, that changes. When adults or the government … give us opportunity to do so, we do make a change and are actually able to help adults ensure a safe environment for children.” Female, 17
VOY members offer simple but practical suggestions to improve the situation for children and young people. For example, they point out that for poorer countries, debt repayment is a major obstacle to investment in basic services, especially those targeting children. They believe that debt relief should be more generous.
NEW ZEALAND
“One of the main sources of poverty in my opinion is debt. To pay back the money, many governments are making cuts on social spending like education. Developed countries need to forgive the debt before change can start being made.” Female, 18
They believe that richest countries should increase their assistance to the poorest countries.
SINGAPORE
“I strongly feel that less fortunate countries should be aided by developed countries and other international organizations such as the UN. Otherwise, the poor will become poorer and the rich will become richer.” Female, 17
NORWAY
“There are enough resources in this world to supply all, but the wealth is so unfairly distributed: some have nothing while others have way too much! If we all stand together we CAN make a difference, we just need to make the governments in the industrialized countries realize that they have to help make this world a better place.” Female, 19
Young people believe that corporate initiatives can play an important role in alleviating poverty and helping achieve a better world for children.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
“Many businesses claim they are helping countries secure clean water for their people, or provide affordable electricity… businesses have the resources and power in various countries to make change possible.” Male, > 21
Young people believe that it is the government’s responsibility first and foremost to provide education to its citizens. They suggest that they need to invest more in education to ensure Access for All. They point out that it would be much wiser if money were spent on education instead of weapons of destruction
INDIA
“Education is the best way to eradicate the problems of poverty, unemployment, and ethnic conflicts. It shouldn’t be a dream for education to be free. If a country can spend huge amounts of money on missiles........why not divert that money for the betterment of the people?” Female, 20
Young people stress that no form of violence against children is justifiable. They point out effective ways to prevent and respond to violence, abuse and exploitation, such as including programmes to support parenting skills; programmes to improve school environment; increasing accountability for perpetrators, and for young people themselves to campaign against all forms of violence and abuse.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
“For instance, we could start writing letters to government officials. Start showing advertisements on television. We could start handing out flyers. The more people that know about it, the more government officials will be alert about it.” Female, > 21
Although there has been significant progress in fighting HIV/AIDS, VOY members are aware that children and youth are still missing out. They share many ideas on combating HIV/AIDS and mitigating the effects of the disease on children, including improving awareness of this global pandemic, encouraging community participation, increasing access to treatment and reducing the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.
TUNISIA
“We would have less of a problem if we had sex education in class, if we had easy access to contraception and especially condoms, if the government gave free AIDS tests, if society did not shun those with HIV, if people were actually aware of what exactly AIDS is.” Female
Young people believe that they themselves are the greatest asset towards making the world a better place. Every little bit counts!
IRAQ
“We can be the change we want to see in the world ...and a thousand mile journey begins with one step.” Female, 20
CANADA
“It is totally up to us to make these things come true. Let’s make the Millennium Development Goals happen! Let’s build a school in a poor country; dig a well; sponsor a child; demonstrate peace, tolerance and love; be an example for others.” Female, 19
CONCLUSION
Five years after the Special Session on Children, Most VOY members believe there is still a chance that the promises made to children at the historic event of 2002 can still be fulfilled; however, they are adamant that the only way to move forward is for all stakeholders to join together, including young people themselves, in what they believe will surely be a struggle to reach the finish line. It is clear from the discussion boards that young people around the world are committed, now more than ever, to achieving the objectives that will make their world what they want it to be. To them, failure to achieve the goals of “A World Fit for Children” is simply not an option. They have a crystal clear image of the world that they want and they are out to get it!
GHANA
“A world fit for children is a world where every child has enough good food to eat every single day; a world where children are supported to achieve their ambitions no matter what they are; a world where children have never heard the sound of a gun or have ever seen one; a world where every single child is filled with joy and plenty of happiness; and most important of it all, a world where children can go to school every single day.” Male
For more information contact:
Maria Cristina Gallegos
Voices of Youth Coordinator Adolescent Development & Participation Unit (ADAP), Programme Division
voy@unicef.org
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Video Friday: 2007 National Youth Award Winners
Watch out for these kids.
The youth award video highlighting the 2007 National Youth Award Winners.
Directed by Alberto Ferreras
Produced by Bria Bergman
The youth award video highlighting the 2007 National Youth Award Winners.
Directed by Alberto Ferreras
Produced by Bria Bergman
Youth Leadership Program
Who: Alex Allen and Sarah Zimmer
Age: Sophmore and Junior in High School
What: They are volunteers in a youth leadership program and are making a difference in there community!
Alex and Sarah are two youths striving to make a difference in their community through the Youth Leadership Program. They were chosen to be featured in this article out of 10 participants. This is an easy read. I hope you all make the effort to read it and see some of the positive things these two youth's are doing. This article can be found at The Times Herald.
Hats off to two young volunteers making a difference
Pair from Wings of the Harbor recognized for contributions
To wrap up this month's focus on youth programs and feature "Volunteer Recognition" in April, we asked Tina Essmaker from the Wings of the Harbor to highlight two extraordinary youths.
Here's what she wrote:
As program coordinator for the United Way Youth Collaborative, I was asked to select two of the 10 youth participants from the Youth Leadership Program to be featured in this article. This was a very difficult task as all the youth participants have been wonderful to work with, and they each bring something special to the group.
I would like to recognize the strengths and talents of each individual and if I had the space, I would feature them all. I would also like to thank the United Way, which has made this program possible and continues to support our endeavors to encourage leadership in St. Clair County youth.
The first youth participant I would like to recognize is Alex Allen.
Alex is a sophomore at Port Huron Northern High School who enjoys cross-country skiing and was referred to the Youth Leadership Program from one of the collaborative agencies, The Boy Scouts of America. Alex has been involved with Boy Scouts for six years and is an Eagle Scout. He is full of insight and working with him has been a pleasure.
I know there are many positive things in store for his future. After completing the required training sessions, Alex began volunteering at the YMCA, also a member of the collaborative body. He assists with the YMCA's after-school program at Thomas A. Edison Elementary School and his duties include helping elementary students with their homework and helping with activities and games.
Alex reports that his placement has been working out well and has been enjoyable.
The second youth participant I would like to highlight is Sarah Zimmer, a junior at St. Clair High School.
Sarah is an active member of the student council and enjoys teaching catechism, participating in youth group, writing for the "Model T Times," and restoring a Model T vehicle with her dad.
In the future, she plans to attend Grand Valley State University and major in genetic counseling.
Sarah was referred to the Youth Leadership Program from the Girl Scouts, also a collaborative agency. She has been a member of the organization for 12 years and is a Senior Girl Scout.
Sarah has been an amazing individual to work with. She is intelligent, charismatic and able to adapt to various situations without compromising who she is as an individual.
After completing the required training sessions, Sarah began volunteering at the Harbor. Her primary task will be assisting with the Street Outreach Program, working with at-risk youth.
Sarah said the Youth Leadership Program is a good program that allows people to view different settings and gain an understanding of what is out there, and she enjoys giving back.
Hats off to Alex and Sara. You truly "Do Good" for our community!
Age: Sophmore and Junior in High School
What: They are volunteers in a youth leadership program and are making a difference in there community!
Alex and Sarah are two youths striving to make a difference in their community through the Youth Leadership Program. They were chosen to be featured in this article out of 10 participants. This is an easy read. I hope you all make the effort to read it and see some of the positive things these two youth's are doing. This article can be found at The Times Herald.
Hats off to two young volunteers making a difference
Pair from Wings of the Harbor recognized for contributions
To wrap up this month's focus on youth programs and feature "Volunteer Recognition" in April, we asked Tina Essmaker from the Wings of the Harbor to highlight two extraordinary youths.
Here's what she wrote:
As program coordinator for the United Way Youth Collaborative, I was asked to select two of the 10 youth participants from the Youth Leadership Program to be featured in this article. This was a very difficult task as all the youth participants have been wonderful to work with, and they each bring something special to the group.
I would like to recognize the strengths and talents of each individual and if I had the space, I would feature them all. I would also like to thank the United Way, which has made this program possible and continues to support our endeavors to encourage leadership in St. Clair County youth.
The first youth participant I would like to recognize is Alex Allen.
Alex is a sophomore at Port Huron Northern High School who enjoys cross-country skiing and was referred to the Youth Leadership Program from one of the collaborative agencies, The Boy Scouts of America. Alex has been involved with Boy Scouts for six years and is an Eagle Scout. He is full of insight and working with him has been a pleasure.
I know there are many positive things in store for his future. After completing the required training sessions, Alex began volunteering at the YMCA, also a member of the collaborative body. He assists with the YMCA's after-school program at Thomas A. Edison Elementary School and his duties include helping elementary students with their homework and helping with activities and games.
Alex reports that his placement has been working out well and has been enjoyable.
The second youth participant I would like to highlight is Sarah Zimmer, a junior at St. Clair High School.
Sarah is an active member of the student council and enjoys teaching catechism, participating in youth group, writing for the "Model T Times," and restoring a Model T vehicle with her dad.
In the future, she plans to attend Grand Valley State University and major in genetic counseling.
Sarah was referred to the Youth Leadership Program from the Girl Scouts, also a collaborative agency. She has been a member of the organization for 12 years and is a Senior Girl Scout.
Sarah has been an amazing individual to work with. She is intelligent, charismatic and able to adapt to various situations without compromising who she is as an individual.
After completing the required training sessions, Sarah began volunteering at the Harbor. Her primary task will be assisting with the Street Outreach Program, working with at-risk youth.
Sarah said the Youth Leadership Program is a good program that allows people to view different settings and gain an understanding of what is out there, and she enjoys giving back.
Hats off to Alex and Sara. You truly "Do Good" for our community!
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