Empowering Children and Youth as Change Makers

One of the strongest potentials for the Inner Development Goals (IDGs) is in shaping how future generations learn, grow, and act as change makers. Children and young people are already leading transformation in their schools, communities, and societies — but too often without the structures and support they need to flourish. This side event will focus on how we can ensure that every stage of a young person’s life course is scaffolded with opportunities to thrive, develop capabilities, and step into their unique role as change drivers.

Grounded in the UN Pact for the Future (adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2024), the event will explore how intergenerational allyship, supportive everyday environments, and youth-led leadership can turn commitments into reality — so that young people are not just seen and heard, but also trusted and empowered to lead.

What will you experience?

• Learn through concrete examples from Sweden, Colombia, and other parts of the world on how children and youth are already leading inner and outer change.
  
• Explore intergenerational allyship: how adults, institutions, and other age groups can create the conditions for young people to thrive.
  
• Co-create pathways to integrate the IDGs into everyday contexts for children and youth — in education, at home, and in communities.

Who can join?

This interactive workshop is designed for educators, youth leaders, policymakers, civil society actors, and professionals working with or for children and youth.

Organized by

IDG Foundation together and Skandia Idéer för Livet, drawing insights from Colombia (Medellín Challenge) and Switzerland/Global (Caux Initiatives of Change) and Sweden, and global youth empowerment movements.