Why do you want to participate?

I would like to participate in the International Youth Conference because it offers a unique opportunity to engage with passionate young people from around the world and collaboratively develop innovative solutions for global challenges. As a curious and eager student with a migration background, I am particularly excited about the chance to contribute my expertise in business and HR management to develop sustainable strategies for fostering young talent and shaping a future-oriented leadership culture. Furthermore, I see the conference as a valuable platform to expand my international network, deepen my intercultural competencies, and benefit from the diverse perspectives of other participants. My participation is not only about gaining new insights but also about actively contributing to discussions and sharing constructive ideas for a sustainable and inclusive future.

What does freedom mean to you?

For me, freedom means the ability to express my thoughts, beliefs, and dreams without restrictions and to shape my life independently. Freedom is not just the absence of external constraints but also the opportunity to take responsibility for my actions and actively contribute to society. As a student with a migration background, freedom also means equal opportunities – the chance to pursue my personal and professional goals regardless of my origin or background. True freedom is reflected in the ability to make one’s own decisions without fear of discrimination or disadvantage and to live in a world that promotes respect, diversity, and tolerance. However, I believe that freedom is not something to be taken for granted but a value that we must actively protect and continue to develop. It comes with responsibility – for ourselves, for others, and for society as a whole. That’s why I strive to foster a culture of open dialogue, equal opportunities, and mutual support in my environment.

What are the biggest challenges?

There are many challenges regarding freedom for young people today, such as: Many young people are struggling with uncertainties like rising living costs, the difficulty of finding jobs, and an uncertain future. The freedom to live independently and without fear of financial hardship is increasingly restricted. The fear of unemployment and the difficulty of building a stable career often lead to confusion and despair. For many young people, the future is becoming more uncertain, leading to increased stress and, more often, depression. Another often overlooked aspect is the lack of equal opportunities. In many countries, young people are severely restricted in their freedom due to poverty, political instability, or conflicts – such as young girls and women in Afghanistan. Wars and social unrest in various parts of the world make it especially difficult to build a stable and secure future. In these regions, not only are educational opportunities severely limited, but the possibility of even finding a job is nearly impossible. Living in such crisis areas creates additional fear and uncertainty, affecting the well-being of many young people and severely limiting their ability to grow. The lack of access to education and poverty – such as in countries like Sudan, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and Syria – that many young people worldwide face, complicates their ability to break free from these constraints and live a free, self-determined life. These structural barriers reduce opportunities to fully realize their potential and truly be free. In conclusion, I see my participation in the International Youth Conference as an opportunity to actively contribute to the discussion and share ideas for a sustainable and equitable future. Given the challenges young people worldwide face, I want to work together on solutions that ensure freedom and equality for all.

Do you have a message?

It would be a great honor for me to be part of the International Youth Conference (IYC). As an engaged student with a migration background, I understand the challenges young people, especially those from migrant families, face when it comes to building a career and accessing education. At the age of six, I moved from Afghanistan to Europe with my mother, and I know firsthand how difficult it can be to start a new life as a child of migrants. This experience has sparked my passion for advocating for young people who have to overcome similar barriers. I firmly believe that by sharing our stories and working together on solutions, we can create a world where every young person has the freedom and opportunity to grow regardless of their background.