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| © UNICEF Mozambique/2008/Yeo |
| Denise Milice, 16, founder of a youth-empowerment group in Mozambique, was in New York for the 2008 session of the Commission on the Status of Women. |
Adolescents contribute to society in countless, influential ways. They publish newspapers and magazines, run businesses, and serve as leaders in schools and communities. Some manage households; some care for younger siblings or ailing parents. Many work long days in factories and in fields.
Bursting with vitality, curiosity and spirit, young people have the potential to help advance the world.
They can educate their peers about life's challenges and the dangers of high-risk behaviour: about protecting themselves from diseases such as HIV/AIDS, for example. They can help others like themselves break cycles of violence and discrimination.
UNICEF works with and for adolescents to involve them in life-affirming activities. When they are appreciated as sources of energy, imagination and passion, young people flourish and so their communities flourish.
UNICEF: Investing in adolescents can break cycles of poverty and inequity
Adolescence: Beyond the Stereotypes
Learning Series Vol. 5: Africa’s Young Urbanites
Adolescence: A time that matters
Map of programmes for adolescent participation during conflict and post-conflict situations
The Participation Rights of Adolescents: A Strategic Approach
Children and climate change
Adolescent children are powerful agents for change. Find out more adolescent's community-based advocacy around climate changes issues at the UNICEF's environment and climate change pages.
Child and Youth Participation Resource Guide
Voices of Youth
