IYF

What happens when young people’s creativity, experiences, and voices are placed at the center of learning and development?

At the 2026 GELYDA Conference, IYF’s Pia Saunders Campbell shared how Creative Youth Development (CYD) can help strengthen partnerships between young people and the institutions that serve them.

Drawing on lessons from Burberry Inspire, a global Creative Youth Development initiative, Pia explored how creativity can foster confidence, resilience, curiosity, and purpose while creating more meaningful opportunities for young people to shape programs and decisions.

We’re proud to contribute to the growing global conversation around approaches that recognize young people as collaborators and leaders in shaping their futures.

Sure, AI can write emails, analyze data, and build presentations. But what it can't do is replace what makes us human. 💡

Communication. Critical thinking. Adaptability. Leadership. Emotional intelligence.

As the future of work evolves, these life skills are becoming more valuable than ever because they help young people build careers that can grow alongside technology.

Our latest blog explores why investing in life skills isn't just about preparing young people for their first job. It's about giving them the tools to adapt, grow, and thrive throughout their careers.

🔗 Read the full blog on our website. Link in bio.

Today we are launching a new three-part case study series highlighting lessons from the Microsoft Global AI for TVET Community of Practice, co-delivered by IYF, Microsoft AI Skills Elevate, the UNESCO Global Education Coalition, and the Global Skills Academy.

Technical and vocational institutes across Latin America, Africa, and
Asia are showing what happens when AI adoption moves past basic
chatbots and into institutional strategy.​

Case Study 1: "Classrooms to Careers" breaks down how global
networks are using AI to analyze live job market data, automate heavy lesson prep for teachers, spot student dropout risks early, and connect classroom training directly to open jobs.​

When an entire educational system adopts smart technology
strategically, teachers get valuable hours back and graduates step into the workforce with career-ready skills.​

🔗 Head to https://iyfglobal.org/global-ai-tvet-training/ to read Case Study 1 and explore the series.​

Real change happens when young people have the opportunity to shape the decisions that affect their communities.

Jovens em acao Rede (Youth in Action: Network) is creating a space for young social entrepreneurs and youth leaders across Brazil to connect, collaborate, and share ideas that can inform public policy and development.

We're proud to partner with the World Bank Group CIVIC: The Civil Society and Social Innovation Alliance to help build a stronger network of youth leaders working toward more inclusive and sustainable communities.

Last chance to join us.

In just a few days, we'll share practical, research-backed strategies for helping young people build communication, confidence, and job readiness.

If you work with youth, you'll leave with ideas you can put into practice right away.

📅 July 22 | 12 PM ET

Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/9817799151842/WN_XGTQE_xgRo6Mp8TbThdJSg

Every skill learned is a step toward new opportunities.

This World Youth Skills Day, we're celebrating the power of skills to help young people prepare for work, adapt to change, and shape the future they want.

At IYF, we believe skills go beyond technical training. Communication, leadership, digital literacy, and career readiness all play an important role in helping young people thrive in a changing world.

Together with our partners, we're working to ensure more young people have access to the skills and opportunities they need to build meaningful futures.

Proud moment for IYF and Cisco Networking Academy in Mexico!

We were honored at the Academy Conference LATAM 2026 in Santiago, Chile, with the 2026 Premier+ Partner recognition for our work expanding access to digital skills training and strengthening tech talent development.

This recognition reflects the impact of collaboration across partners, educators, and institutions committed to building employability and digital inclusion in Mexico.

A big thank you to everyone who contributed to this milestone!

By 2035, 1.2 billion young people in emerging markets and developing economies will reach working age.

Creating enough jobs is a challenge. Creating enough quality jobs is an even bigger one.

A new World Bank report highlights the importance of investing in people, supporting businesses, and strengthening the systems that connect young people to meaningful employment.

At IYF, we see these priorities in action every day. Through partnerships with educators, employers, governments, and communities, we're helping young people build the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Read more at the link in our bio.