Everyone has been, currently is, or will be a certified “youth” at some point in their lives.  That is why we are excited to celebrate International Youth Day this Sunday, August 12th!  Sounds fun, huh?  But it isn’t just a day to hang out or an excuse to act like a kid again.  Rather, it is a global call to action for young men and women, as well as others around the world, to develop and engage in partnerships with youth towards building a better world.

This Sunday there will be different events happening all over the world, where youth will begin to create a global community of young activists.  Using social media, students who are connected with World Vision will be able to share about their own experiences, what is currently happening in their communities, as well brainstorming for new and innovative ways they can continue to act.

This summer while in Cambodia, a team of World Vision U.S. activists were able to meet with numerous youth who were having an immense impact on their community.  These Cambodian students were joining together weekly, to learn and find ways to implement change they wanted to see happen in their village.  They have been influential in seeing rates of domestic abuse, child exploitation, disease, and numerous other issues decrease over the past few years.  As the community has seen their leadership evolve, local leaders have been responding and supporting their movements, causing an even larger impact.

We need to partner with youth like these who are passionate, willing, and eager to be leaders now, because they will ultimately shape the future.  Use this International Youth Day to partner with youth near you and around the globe to see individual efforts that will build a better world.

How should you get connected?  Start with these resources:

1. Check out this great video that Cambodian youth made to share the dangers of trafficking:
http://www.worldvisionmagazine.org/stories/cambodian-children-against-trafficking
2. Stay updated with World Vision’s International Youth Day blog to hear stories of youth and their passions:
http://internationalyouthdayworldvision.blogspot.com.au/
3. Like the “International Youth Day with World Vision” Facebook page and share your thoughts with youth around the globe:
https://www.facebook.com/InternationalYouthDay