Youth champions share stories of hope in The Education Issue
Theirworld’s Global Youth Ambassadors became reporters to spotlight education issues and innovations in their communities for the second edition of the annual newspaper, produced with The Observer Studio.
Ten of Theirworld’s Global Youth Ambassadors have shared inspiring stories about the power of learning in their communities for the second edition of The Education Issue.
The annual newspaper – available in print and online – features articles and a video report by young education advocates from around the world. They include spotlights on teaching children with disabilities in Kenya, mentoring young people living with HIV in Nepal and helping migrants access education in the United Kingdom.
The 10 Global Youth Ambassadors took part in a journalism project to learn the tools and techniques needed to identify and share stories of courage and hope from often underserved communities.
The Education Issue is produced in association with The Observer Studio, the content studio of The Observer newspaper. It was guest-edited by The Observer’s Managing Editor Jess Winch, who said: “What connects these stories is the determination of the people who refuse to see a barrier as the end of the road. They are a reminder that education is about far more than what happens inside a classroom – it’s about confidence, connection and also joy.”
The Education Issue is part of Theirworld’s mission to end the global education crisis and unlock the potential of future generations.
About 1,000 young people enrol each year in the Global Youth Ambassador programme to receive training that empowers them to advocate for reform in local and national education systems. More than 10,000 young people from over 140 countries have taken part in the programme.
The second edition of the Education Issue will be launched at an event coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Two of the Global Youth Ambassadors whose work is featured – Carolina Riera from Argentina and Wajiha Mekki from the United States of America – will be there to talk about their stories.
Alfred Rugongo, 25, from Nairobi, wrote about how adapted teaching can impact children with disabilities in Kenya. He said: “Working on The Education Issue has strengthened my belief that education is far more than classrooms and schools. It is about people, inclusion and providing a safe place to learn for every child.”
“One of the biggest challenges in reporting this story was encountering firsthand the realities of education inequality. I hope this story inspires conversations, influences actions and encourages more people to champion equitable, inclusive and quality education for every child.”
Dawn Humphreys, Group Director of Programmes at Theirworld said: “The stories uncovered by the Global Youth Ambassadors in the second edition of The Education Issue, highlight the importance of ensuring all children and young people can learn in safety. It shows us the solutions that are being led in communities around the world, as well as what can happen when young people are given the tools and platform to amplify these stories and inspire global change.”
For interviews, images or further information, please contact:
- Darika Ahrens darika@theirworld.org +44 7960 528 480