Youth leadership isn’t just about training; it’s about immersing young people in real-life experiences where they gain skills, perspectives, and a sense of global responsibility. The Global Peace Foundation (GPF) exemplifies this approach with its belief and commitment to developing the vision of “One Family under God,” where diverse communities come together for shared peace and progress. Programs like the Youth for Reunification Project (Y4RP) and the My Club online community in Mongolia offer meaningful ways for young people to engage in social issues, environmental initiatives, and cultural exchanges that inspire both personal and societal transformation.
Youth for Reunification Project (Y4RP)
Y4RP is an annual international initiative where young social entrepreneurs propose and develop projects to address contemporary issues. This year, Y4RP also became part of GPF’s International Summer Camp in South Korea, where six Mongolian youth delegates participated in activities that bridged historical, cultural, and personal development goals.
During this summer camp, participants joined workshops like the “Model UN Vision Workshop,” took part in discussions on significant historical events like the Korean Peninsula’s liberation, and engaged in activities at the Goseong DMZ leadership workshop to learn about Korean reunification. These immersive experiences empowered these young leaders with insights into conflict resolution, diplomacy, and community leadership, aligning with GPF’s focus on nurturing socially responsible and globally minded individuals.
One participant shared, “The camp didn’t just teach me about leadership; it shifted my perspective. I returned home with the resolve to not only impact my community but also join hands with others globally to make a difference.”
My Club Online Community: Mobilizing Youth for Environmental Impact
Closer to home, the My Club online community in Mongolia offers a platform for youth to engage in environmental advocacy and volunteerism. In August 2024, My Club organized an event aligned with Mongolia’s Billion Tree National Movement, where 94 children and youth planted trees, conducted eco-training, and raised over 2 million tugriks for ecological projects. This grassroots involvement not only benefits local communities but also teaches the youth invaluable skills in organizing, fundraising, and sustainability leadership.
Both Y4RP and My Club programs in Mongolia reflect GPF’s commitment to nurturing youth with not only leadership skills but also a heart for service. The foundation’s youth initiatives emphasize real-life experiences that blend skill-building with empathy. In spaces like Y4RP and My Club, youth are encouraged to engage actively with their communities, taking on responsibilities that extend beyond personal goals to collective well-being.
At the core of GPF’s youth development mission is the belief that today’s youth can rise to become leaders who prioritize unity, integrity, and service. By fostering these qualities, GPF is building a generation that embodies “One Family under God”—where individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs work together toward a harmonious and sustainable future.
In a world often divided by differences, the young leaders emerging from GPF’s programs are a beacon of hope. With experiences that span cultural exchanges and community initiatives, they embody the message that change starts with the youth—those willing to embrace unity and dedicate their skills and passion to creating a more peaceful, connected world. Through Y4RP, My Club, and more, GPF is lighting the way for a generation to lead with purpose and compassion in Mongolia and beyond.
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