“Certainly, with today’s remarkable technology and communications tools, the potential for young leaders to make a significant impact is enormous. With the technical tools to spread information and ideas broadly and rapidly, a moral and innovative leader could make meaningful and far-reaching contributions to the betterment of the human family.” —James Flynn (GPF International President)
Young people are the heart of nations and societies. In communities around the world, young people are stepping up to lead in ways that inspire hope and change. Since its inception in 2009, Global Peace Foundation has been supporting and empowering youths in their leadership journey through its wide range of initiatives and programs. As International Youth Day approaches this August, we want to celebrate the youth of Global Peace Foundation and thousands more from around the world with stories and impact created over the years. Over the next few weeks, we will share inspiring stories of young changemakers, their leadership, and GPF initiatives that have helped shape their journeys.
GPF’s youth efforts are centered on the Global Peace Values Framework to foster Moral and Innovative Leadership in young peacebuilders around the world. While the Global Peace Values Framework is a values-based approach to peacebuilding on common humanity, innate human dignity, and the idea that we are all part of One Family under God, the moral and innovative leadership model encourages youth to lead with character and creativity. Throughout the years, GPF has hosted a wide range of leadership programs rooted in universal principles.
In 2024, Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Malaysia hosted a three-day leadership camp, harnessing the leadership potential of 49 Orang Asli youths; the indigenous people of Peninsular Malaysia. Themed “Shining Like a Star,” the camp aimed to boost confidence, foster leadership skills, and create lasting connections among participants. With exciting ice-breaking activities, engaging conversations, workshops, and adventure and discovery, the participants experienced transformation and deep personal growth. Group activities built trust and teamwork, while evening circles offered time for deep reflection and emotional expression- something many youth had never experienced before. The ripple effect of the camp continues to spread as leadership continues in their life.
Read the full story here: Empowering Indigeneous Youth in Malaysia
Since 2022, Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Kenya has organized a premier mentorship and leadership development initiative called the President’s Fellowship Program from all 47 counties. Designed for youth between the ages of 14 and 35, the fellowship has an integrated learning approach with a four-month virtual leadership training program covering topics as governance, entrepreneurship, environmental stewardship, and peacebuilding. It is then followed by a three-month internship and community service. Each fellow is matched with a mentor to guide their journey, culminating in a national summit. They also engage in inter-county exchanges, outdoor leadership challenges, and national-level dialogue. Each cycle culminates in a summit recognizing their achievements and commitment to public service. The leadership initiative is a movement that anchors youth in community engagement and their leadership development.
Read the full story here: President’s Fellowship Program Provides Mentoring and Leadership Opportunities
Launched in 2024, the Global Peace Leadership Corps (GPCorps) is an international fellowship program designed to address global challenges through values-based service and leadership. Rooted in the vision of “One Family Under God,” the initiative focuses on important areas like conflict resolution, cultural understanding, and sustainable development. It has a structured curriculum of leadership development, hands-on service, and practical training. The program is launched in different countries around the world, where the participants in the program design peacebuilding projects and address local issues. In the Philippines alone, over 2,500 youths have already taken part in the initiative.
“This training (GPCorps) gave me the confidence and skills to handle conflicts in my community. I now feel ready to step into leadership roles and make a real difference.” – Mark Reyes, Cebu Philippines
These initiatives have been a guiding light for many young people, helping them discover their potential and inspiring them to lead with integrity and purpose. From leadership camps in Malaysia to fellowship programs in Kenya and the global service projects through GPCorps, GPF continues to invest in young people and foster youth leadership. As we move closer to International Youth Day, we at GPF reaffirm our commitment and dedication to empowering youth across countries and cultures. With each youth empowered through GPF’s initiative, we are one step closer to a world guided by peace, shared values, and the vision of One Family under God.
