As the World Youth Forum‘s sophomore edition concludes in Egypt’s Red Sea resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh, we look back at the annual forum — held under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi — and our favorite moments from it, quotes to be specific.
This year, around 5,000 Egyptian and foreign youths participated, including journalists, public figures and officials from more than 50 countries around the world. We’ve listed down our favorite quotes from conversations we’ve had, speeches we’ve listened to at this year’s World Youth Forum that will surely inspire you, as much as they inspired us.
Esmat Elsayed, Co-Founder of Young Mediterranean Voices
Via Esmat Elsayed
“The role of the youth has gone beyond being heard. We now need to be taken seriously in what we recommend. If the policies are going to be about us, then young people better be on the policy-making table.”
Nadia Murad, Iraqi Yazidi Human Rights Activist
Via Nadia Murad
“All of us, especially young people, are presented with a historical opportunity to work towards spreading peace and justice in the region.”
Mohamed Khairat, Founder of Egyptian Streets
Via Mohamed Khairat
“Social media is a way to reflect real images of different countries. It’s a cultural fair.”
Meryem Lahrichi, Entrepreneur and Education Change Agent
Via Meryem Lahrichi
“Education is not what happens inside classrooms, it is what happens when you go out on the streets.”
Willard Mswati Gomani, Became a Leader of His Malawian Tribe at the Age of 12
Via World Youth Forum
“My brothers and my sisters are no longer just the leaders of tomorrow, but rather the leaders of the present day.”
Sarah Abushaar, A New York-Based Investment Banking Analyst at Goldman Sachs
Via World Youth Forum
“Our youth are our greatest power reserves if we can unlock their potential.”
Hala Youssef, Former Egyptian Minister of Population
Via Hala Youssef
“Policies and initiatives should aim at fostering women’s labor market participation by giving real incentives for women employers, providing childcare support and flexible working hours.”
Arwa Abdoun, Photographer and Sculptor
Via Arwa Abdoun
“Whatever religion you decide to follow, you need to be a part-time humanist by accepting the others.”
