In a groundbreaking stride towards bolstering the role of young leaders in addressing gender inequalities, Heela Yoon, the founder of the Afghan Youth Action Plan (AYAP), took a significant step by attending the UN Women Europe & Central Asia Youth Forum held in the vibrant city of Istanbul, Turkey. The forum, held over two and a half days from December 6th to 8th, 2022, was a resounding declaration that the future of gender equality and social justice is inextricably linked with the dynamism and vigor of youth engagement.

The overarching theme of the forum resonated with the essence of youth participation in shaping an equal and sustainable future. In a world where young people grapple with multifaceted challenges, particularly felt by girls and young women, this gathering was a call to action. Grounded in the principles laid out in Youth 2030, UN Youth Strategy, the forum highlighted the disproportionate burden borne by young people – from the perils of climate change to the enduring specter of gender-based violence. However, it also celebrated their resilience, creativity, and ability to drive transformative change.

At the heart of the forum was the Regional Youth Network, a platform orchestrated by UN Women ECARO, comprising National Gender Youth Activists (NGYAs) from various countries. These activists, who ardently champion gender equality and human rights, convened to advance a shared vision. With the support of UN Women ECARO, they sought to foster meaningful youth engagement within communities, amplify voices, and serve as potent advocates for gender parity and women's empowerment.

In the midst of this forum, Heela Yoon shared a spotlight on the critical importance of grassroots youth leaders in catalysing change. Through her experiences with AYAP, Yoon underscored that lasting impact often start at the local level. Grassroots initiatives, driven by the passions of young people, serve as conduits for innovative solutions that reverberate far beyond their origins. Furthermore, she emphasized the pressing need for enhanced educational opportunities for young leaders. Education, she noted, is the cornerstone for nurturing informed advocates who can effectively dismantle inequalities. This resonated with the forum's objectives, particularly the establishment of workstreams to shape youth engagement strategies within the broader framework of Generation Equality.

In conclusion, the UN Women Europe & Central Asia Youth Forum held in Istanbul marked a historic juncture, underscoring the significance of youth engagement in shaping a more just and equitable world. Heela Yoon's presence, along with her emphasis on grassroots empowerment and educational access, exemplified the transformative potential of youth leadership. As the voices of young activists continue to rise, their vision and action stand poised to herald a brighter future where gender equality is not merely an aspiration, but a lived reality.