Peace Actor Network

We are seeking individuals and organizations rethinking peacebuilding and social impact. Irrespective of your focus: arts, technology, youth advocacy, research, finance, or community development, this is a space to connect, collaborate, and create change.

💡 Be part of a community that values innovation, evidence, and bold ideas in shaping the future of peace.

Apply through the link in our bio!

Today we celebrate young changemakers who refuse to wait for permission to build the world they want to see.

From community gardens tackling food insecurity to youth-led climate adaptation projects, from digital literacy programs bridging the education gap to peace-building initiatives healing divided communities, young people are the SDGs in action.

Countries with higher youth engagement in development programs tend to make significantly faster progress toward poverty reduction targets, as young people’s participation brings valuable insights and leadership to these efforts. However, only a very small fraction of global development funding (estimated well below 5%) is directed straight to youth-led organizations.

The paradox is stark: We need youth leadership most where we invest in it least.

This International Youth Day, let's move beyond celebrating youth as "leaders of tomorrow." They are solving today's challenges with tomorrow's thinking, right now, in their neighborhoods, with whatever resources they can mobilize.

The question is not whether young people can deliver on the SDGs. They already are.

The question is: Are we ready to match their ambition with our investment?