Global Youth Summit for Youth Voice, Policy, and Action: A Week That Changed Us Forever
Dhanvi Gahlawat | April 7, 2025
Imagine a space where youth from 12 different countries come together—not just to discuss global issues, but to shape solutions, influence policy, and take action. Imagine the energy of young changemakers debating some of the most pressing challenges of our time: the climate crisis, youth unemployment, artificial intelligence, and global conflict. Now, add a week of cultural immersion, deep learning, and pure, unfiltered joy.
This was the Global Youth Summit for Youth Voice, Policy, and Action, held at Lakehead University in February 2025—a powerful, immersive experience where youth didn’t just talk about change; they became it.
More Than Just a Summit—A Global Family
As a part of OCIC’s Youth Policy-Makers Hub and the organizing team at Lakehead University, I had the privilege of helping plan and participate in this transformative event. Designed as a comprehensive convention for youth to engage in policy discussions and take action, the summit focused on four key themes shaping our world today:
1. The Global Economy, the Future of Employment, and the Expanding Wealth Gap
Youth unemployment is a growing crisis, driven by mismatched skills, economic instability, and limited access to education and work experience. We explored solutions to equip youth for the future of work, including vocational training, entrepreneurship, and policy advocacy for fair employment opportunities.
2. The Climate Crisis and Environmental Sustainability
With rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and food insecurity impacting millions worldwide, young people are demanding urgent climate action. This summit provided a platform for climate activists, researchers, and youth leaders to develop innovative strategies for adaptation and sustainability.
3. Peace and Conflict
War, displacement, and instability directly affect the lives of youth from many of the countries represented at the summit. We created a safe space for discussions on conflict resolution, youth leadership in peacebuilding, and policies that promote security and stability.
4. Artificial Intelligence, Technology, and Information
AI is reshaping industries, while misinformation threatens trust and democracy. Through expert panels and discussions, we explored the ethical implications of AI, the importance of digital literacy, and how youth can harness technology for good.
These conversations weren’t just surface-level dialogues—they were deep, challenging, and driven by the personal experiences of those in the room.
Beyond the Talks: Learning Through Experience
But the Global Youth Summit wasn’t just about policy—it was about people. We didn’t just learn about Indigenous culture; we lived it.
We:
- Visited the Rama Casino to explore its deep heritage and history.
- Spent time at the Georgian Bay Native Friendship Centre, where we made dreamcatchers and immersed ourselves in the traditions of the Pow Wow.
- Ventured out into the snow for an exhilarating tubing adventure—because global changemakers deserve some fun too!
Throughout the week, we saw friendships blossom between young leaders from different corners of the world. The walls of nationality, language, and culture disappeared as we found common ground in our aspirations, struggles, and shared hope for the future.
A Legacy That Lives On
Perhaps the most powerful takeaway from this summit was realizing that this wasn’t just an event—it was the beginning of a movement.
We shot podcasts on critical global issues, ensuring our discussions extended beyond the summit walls. We formed partnerships, initiated projects, and committed to keeping the momentum alive in our communities. And as we parted ways, we didn’t say goodbye. We said, “See you soon,” because we knew this was only the start.
The Global Youth Summit for Youth Voice, Policy, and Action proved that young people are not just the future—we are the present. And together, we are unstoppable.
Until next time, my global family.
Dhanvi Gahlawat OCIC Youth Policy-Makers Hub Member & Lakehead University Student
Fueled by a relentless passion for the planet, Dhanvi (she/her) is dedicated to championing a sustainable future. Her commitment to environmental stewardship goes beyond personal practice—it’s a call to action. Dhanvi is deeply invested in adapting and advocating for a world where sustainability is the norm, not the exception. With interests spanning sustainable development, environmental preservation, and impactful policy-making, she is constantly seeking ways to inspire change and engage others in the pursuit of a more conscious, sustainable lifestyle.
