UNICEF People

Young leaders

Miryam Cunduri, age 11, at the UN Special Session on Children in New York, May 2002.

Young people make up more than half the world’s population. They are speaking out and taking active leadership roles throughout society to ensure children play a central role in building a world truly fit for children.

These young leaders are making a difference in their communities, campaigning in their schools and are key activists for child rights. They are representing the concerns and views of their peers in forums from youth parliaments to international meetings, and engaging in ‘inter-generational dialogues’ with adults in key decision-making positions.