“Young people know what it is like to be overlooked and underestimated. We know how badly the world needs change.”
By day, Yasmeen is a school student in London. But she’s also an activist who lends her experience to inform the work of one of the world’s leading charities.
“I decided to join Save the Children’s Youth Advisory Board because so many young people are keen on making the world a better place but often lack genuine influence on what decisions are made,” says Olga from Essex, who also sits on the Board. “I really want to change that, so young people can have an active role and make decisions that impact their lives and future.”
Representation is a hot topic across society. Businesses, governments and NGOs are increasingly involving young people to make sure they’re saying the right thing. We’re trying to go one step further, consulting young people to make sure we’re doing the right thing.
Participation not inspiration
Made up of young people aged between 12 and 17 from across the UK, the Youth Advisory Board works closely with the charity’s leadership team and staff.
It’s vital that children and young people don’t just serve as inspiration, but as actual decision-makers, says Meg Briody, Campaigns Manager for Youth Participation at Save the Children. “They’re here for their ideas, passion and creativity. But they’re also here to make actual decisions and challenge us when we’re not getting it right.”
Olga agrees: “The right decisions can only be made when a wide and diverse range of viewpoints are listened to.”
Big issues
We need to start making those decisions urgently. “The most pressing world issue right now is making sure that the coronavirus pandemic does not reverse the progress humanity has made in tackling issues such as inequality, poverty and girls’ education,” says Olga.
“I see climate change and global inequality as the most urgent issues facing us as a species – both largely influenced by human behaviour,” says Yasmeen. “But we do have the means to change the course of history together. We can use these seemingly endless issues as opportunities to create a more just, compassionate society that deeply cares for both people and the planet.”
A more just, compassionate society is a huge ambition. But is change possible?
Changing the story
The truth is, with your support, it’s already happening. Partly through small and mighty programmes that equip children and their families for the future – like working alongside communities to grow more drought-resistant crops or supporting girls to stay in education until they say they’re ready to leave.
There’s no doubt long-term fixes will take time, planning, and commitment. But by asking children the right questions and genuinely listening, together we can make the world a fairer place for the next generation.
“We know how we can come together,” says Yasmeen. “And we know that together, we can make anything happen.”
Learn more about how we're making change possible with the Fairness Fund
