Youth Volunteering at Nexus: Inspiration & Connections at UN NYC Event
Day two of the Nexus Global Summit brought profound reflections on inclusion, resilience, and the power of youth volunteering.
Turma do Jiló closely followed day two of the Nexus Global Summit in New York. Discover inspiring talks, valuable networking, and stories shaping inclusive education. A journey of learning and collaboration at the UN event, driven by Youth Volunteering.
Youth Volunteering (VJ), closely followed by Turma do Jiló, delved into the second day of the Nexus Global Summit, a major event in New York linked to the UN. This day marked the true beginning of the conference, full of opportunities for learning, networking, and deepening crucial topics for a more inclusive future.
Deep Dive into the Nexus Global Summit
The day's agenda was intense and inspiring. VJ participants had the chance to hear impactful talks on current and emerging topics, as well as actively participate in dynamic breakout rooms. The morning began with an introductory briefing with Rachel, founder of Nexus, who set the stage for the discussions that would follow. These activities are essential for empowering young people with knowledge and tools that can be applied in their communities, fostering inclusive education and diversity.
Networking was another highlight, allowing VJ youth to forge valuable connections with leaders, experts, and other engaged young people from various parts of the world. Exchanging experiences and perspectives is fundamental for building bridges and expanding the vision of how collaboration can generate significant change.
Voices that Transform: Stories of Disconnection and Resilience
One of the day's most moving moments was the testimony of a speaker who shared a profound personal experience. She described how, despite being in her own village, with her family and community, she felt completely disconnected. This occurred when she was forced to follow cultural practices that caused her suffering, as they had her mother and sisters before her. Her speech resonated strongly, challenging the idea that tradition should prevail over individual freedom and well-being.
This story underscores the importance of questioning norms and advocating for a society that respects each individual's autonomy and integrity. It is a vivid reminder of the need to promote diversity and inclusion not only at large events but in the daily lives of all communities, aligning with the principles of the UN 2030 Agenda to reduce inequalities and promote peace.
Untapped Potential: Refugees and Entrepreneurship
The conference also presented alarming data on the situation of global refugees. It was highlighted that less than 1% of refugees have the opportunity to be resettled in new nations, where they could rebuild their lives and contribute to new communities. This statistic underscores the urgency of more humane and effective policies to address this crisis.
However, amidst this challenging reality, an inspiring truth emerged: refugees often demonstrate high rates of entrepreneurship. This is a little-known fact that reveals the resilience, creativity, and inexhaustible potential of these individuals. Instead of being seen merely as aid beneficiaries, many are agents of change and innovation, capable of generating economic and social value if given the right opportunities. Turma do Jiló believes in the power of each individual and the importance of creating an inclusive ecosystem that values and promotes these talents.
Collaboration and the Spirit of "I Am Because We Are"
The day culminated with a powerful panel on the role of collaboration and the strength of the collective, summarized by the inspiring phrase: "I am because we are." This African philosophy of Ubuntu reflects the interconnectedness of all human beings and the idea that our humanity is expressed through our relationship with others. For Turma do Jiló, which strives to build bridges for a welcoming and just society, this message is central.
The youth from Youth Volunteering and all participants left Day 2 of the Nexus Global Summit with their minds full of new ideas and their hearts motivated to be part of the solution. The experience reinforces the belief in the transformative power of education and joint action for a more egalitarian and inclusive future.