YOUCAN at the Forefront: Advancing Youth Leadership and Climate Vision at the UN House
On July 13, 2025, the Young Climate Action Network (YOUCAN) took part in a strategic and action-oriented UN Youth Advisory Group (YAG) Workshop held at the United Nations House, Dhaka, bringing youth voices into the center of national development discourse.
The workshop opened with a powerful keynote by Dr. Susan Vize, Head of Office and Country Representative of UNESCO Bangladesh, who highlighted the transformative role of youth in building sustainable and equitable futures.
Representing YOUCAN and serving as a YAG member for the past two years, Yudhishtir Chandra Biswas, Executive Director of YOUCAN, delivered a focused presentation to representatives from UNESCO, UNDP, and UNFPA. His remarks outlined YOUCAN’s mission, values, and vision for youth-led climate justice, advocacy, and systemic change.
🎨 When Words Fall Short, Art Speaks Loudest
In a deeply creative session, YAG members explored complex social themes through visual storytelling—using graphic metaphors to express hopes, struggles, and aspirations.
From equality as a tree 🌳, to mental health as the weather 🌦️, and education as a journey 🛤️, the session became a mirror of youth realities and imaginations.
This was more than art—it was a platform for bold reflection, healing, and narrative power. It was youth leadership in its most authentic, expressive form.
🧭 From Dialogue to Action: Co-Creating the YAG Workplan
At the core of the workshop was the co-creation of a six-month YAG workplan—a bold, actionable roadmap developed across five key thematic areas:
📘 Education and Skills Development
🏛️ Governance and Decision-Making
♀️ Gender Equality
🌱 Climate Change and Green Growth
🧠 Mental Health and Wellbeing
Through teamwork, lived experience, and strategic thinking, YAG members translated their discussions into impactful initiatives. From skill-building programs and climate campaigns to policy dialogues and digital engagement—this was not just about planning; it was about forging shared purpose and youth-powered transformation.
🌍 Looking Forward
YOUCAN remains committed to advancing youth-led climate action, policy innovation, and inclusive development. The insights and outputs from this UN platform will directly feed into YOUCAN’s national and grassroots strategies—ensuring that young voices continue to lead from the front.
#YOUCAN #YouthLeadership #UNHouse #ClimateAction #UNESCO #YAG #UNFPA #UNDP #YouthForChange #Bangladesh
