Colombia

Marcela Ñañez

I am a 24 year old Colombian political scientist, graduated with honors from the National University of Colombia and a DEI policy advisor with a keen interest in the intersection between youth affairs, gender equality and social policy. Over the past six years, I have dedicated myself to working with young people from different positions: as a debate teacher, activist, coordinator for the transversalization of Medellín’s Youth Public Policy, and currently as a researcher focused on inclusive environments for young students. These experiences have taught me that there is no greater potential for discovery than what the unique youthful spirit has to say. On the activist side, I am co-founder of Aquelarre, a feminist collective working to make gender equality education more accessible for young women in Medellín and in the last couple of years I have engaged with youth initiatives to understand how the arena of socio political participation of local youth works here. I enjoy traveling and hanging out with my friends and family. My biggest dream is to travel the whole world.

“To me, flourishing should be a reality to everyone who has got the gift of being young. As a first-generation university professional in my family, I have experienced firsthand how opportunities for youth can transform not only individuals lives but also communities, hopes and social perspectives. One scholarship changed my life when I was 16, another one at 20 allowed me to study abroad and understand how different youth life could be when social needs are well met by government and community institutions. This is why I am convinced working towards more opportunities for youth wellbeing is the way. Being young is unique and special, but sometimes it could be lonely, challenging and a bit hopeless, especially when coming from vulnerable backgrounds, I have seen that in my friends, in the youth organizations I have worked with, in studies and realities. We need to take action now and transfer this knowledge to the development of better policies, support networks and grassroots initiatives for youth. My experience working with young people has shown me the transformative power of education, social support, and community awareness are key to fostering youth well-being. I admire the European Youth organization because of their commitment to support youth initiatives, promoting youth development, cultural enrichment through cultural and educational exchange, and foremost, their dedication to increase youth participation in politics and legislation. I advocate for youth wellbeing because deep in my heart, I am certain that the young minds are wild and brave enough to show the world how our voices, demands and desires matter in this emerging landscape, and that is possible only by the union of a greater youth global community.”