Igniting Change: Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Tomorrow through Engagement

Kosovo's dynamic landscape, a new era is dawning for its young population. Their untapped potential is the heartbeat of change, and the United Nations, alongside local institutions, is stitching together opportunities for engagement, aiming to uplift this vibrant generation.

The UN’s strategy is multifaceted focusing on enhancing young people's skills, preparing them for the workforce, and nurturing their leadership abilities and networking. This holistic approach is vital for including youth with disabilities in building a more cohesive society.

Enhancing and validating the Kosovo Youth Strategy 2024-2032 was done through the 2023 UN Youth Assembly The 5th Edition of the UN Youth Assembly, a collaboration between the UN family and the Kosovo government, has been a cornerstone event. It's not just a meeting; it’s a forge where about 150 young leaders from Kosovo and the Western Balkans annually shape their futures. Among participants we meet Trina Hoti and Andi Qorolli. 

Trina’s story is emblematic of the transformative power of engagement. A Child Rights Expert at Save the Children, Trina began her journey with the UN in 2016. Her involvement evolved from a volunteer to a delegate, then to a facilitator, and finally now a changemaker and an expert herself.

"There is a lot of time and space between childhood, young adulthood, and being an engaged young adult. We need to fill that void with more opportunities," Trina says.

Le us introduce to you a differently-abled Andi a testament to inclusion. We also ran into Andi at the Special Olympics event, his enthusiasm was infectious. He not only participated but also moderated the event, breaking barriers for young people with disabilities. Andi’s participation in the regional Special Olympics later that year further underscored the UN's commitment to inclusivity: 

“Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt,” Andi proudly states.

The UN’s continues support for local institutions in investing in youth. Young people hold the keys to a sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant future. Their empowerment is not just an objective; it's a necessity for a cohesive society.

Youth Engagement activities under the "Youth for Inclusion, Equality, and Trust" a Peace Building Fund  initiative, took Andi and Trina and many other Kosovo youth towards finding their life’s path in different and meaningful ways.