International Youth Day: Stories and Ways to Take Action
International Youth Day, observed every year on Aug. 12, celebrates young people’s voices, ideas and leadership. Learn more about what the day is about and how to participate. Then explore stories of inspiration that UNICEF USA supporters, advocates and employees shared for International Youth Day 2020.
Updated July 21, 2026
A day to celebrate youth
International Youth Day, observed on Aug. 12, was established by UN resolution in 1999 as a way to amplify young people's voices, programs and initiatives. Since 2000, it has served as a global day of youth engagement — a day to come together and celebrate youth, raise awareness of the challenges and issues young people face, and to recognize their potential for driving meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
For governments, youth organizations, civil society, academia and others, International Youth Day is also an opportunity to promote dialogue, strengthen partnerships and showcase youth-led initiatives that contribute to more inclusive, peaceful and sustainable societies.
Many challenges facing humanity need global action, and youth are increasingly taking the lead.
International Youth Day 2026
The theme for International Youth Day 2026 is "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations" — recognizing that while young people's lives are shaped by different national and local realities, they share many of the same goals.
Around the world, young people continue to advocate for dignity, meaningful participation in policies and decision making that affects them, quality education, decent work and a sustainable future.
Learn how UNICEF USA is supporting active participation by young people in local governance
Stories of inspiration from UNICEF USA supporters and staff
For International Youth Day 2020, UNICEF USA supporters and staff from the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions shared their personal stories of why UNICEF is important to them.
Watch individual video testimonials from Ashley McGeary, Myranda Moye, Phil Telfeyan, Rachel Wisthuff and Ada Yang, where they share why they choose to engage with UNICEF.
As McGeary says in her video, "Every child matters."
Frequently asked questions about International Youth Day
What is International Youth Day and why is it celebrated?
International Youth Day is an annual observance held on August 12th that celebrates young people’s voices, actions and initiatives while raising awareness of issues affecting youth around the world.
Why is youth participation important?
Youth participation gives young people opportunities to share their perspectives and contribute to decisions that affect their lives, communities and futures. Listening to young people can also help organizations develop programs and policies that better reflect their needs.
How can I support International Youth Day efforts?
You can support International Youth Day by listening to young people, sharing their perspectives and supporting opportunities for education, skills-building and youth leadership. UNICEF works with young people and partners to help adolescents learn, develop skills and participate in shaping their futures.
HOW TO HELP
There are many ways to make a difference
War, famine, poverty, natural disasters — threats to the world's children keep coming. But UNICEF won't stop working to keep children healthy and safe.
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories — more places than any other children's organization. UNICEF has the world's largest humanitarian warehouse and, when disaster strikes, can get supplies almost anywhere within 72 hours. Constantly innovating, always advocating for a better world for children, UNICEF works to ensure that every child can grow up healthy, educated, protected and respected.
Would you like to help give all children the opportunity to reach their full potential? There are many ways to get involved.
