Building a world led by Young People: A look back at the 8th Interamerican Youth Forum

The Interamerican Region celebrated an inspiring milestone on 16–17 August 2025, when the 8th Interamerican Youth Forum brought together 219 participants aged 18–29 from over 30 countries in a fully virtual space under the theme “Building a world led by youth.”

This was the second time the Forum was held virtually, once again proving that borders are no barrier when young people are determined to connect, learn, and lead. Designed and led by young people, for young people, the Forum created unique opportunities for education, dialogue, and collaboration with peers and experts alike.

A gathering of Scouts and non-Scouts

For the first time, the Forum welcomed not only Scouts but also non-Scouts, opening the door to a broader exchange of ideas and perspectives. From grassroots community leaders to youth activists, participants came together united by their commitment to shaping a just, inclusive, and sustainable future for the Region.

Over two days, the Forum explored urgent topics that impact young people’s lives and communities, including:

• Youth in decision-making and the barriers to real participation in governance.
• Inclusion, ensuring diverse youth voices are heard and valued.
• Safety and well-being, with attention to digital risks, mental health, and violence.
• Environmental sustainability and the youth-led fight for climate justice.

“I would define the Interamerican Youth Forum with one phrase: a transformative experience. Young people were truly heard as protagonists, not just participants. I was inspired by seeing them from so many countries sharing their realities, challenges, and dreams, and I confirmed that World Scouting is a space where we can grow, learn, and contribute to the world. I leave [the event] with new friendships, valuable lessons, and the motivation to continue working for more active and influential youth in their communities.” Youth Participant.

Collaboration across organisations

The Forum was enriched by the participation of partner organisations, including UNFPA, YMCA, Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC), Save the Children, The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Junior Achievement, Special Olympics, AeioTu. Through workshops, expo booths, and interactive sessions, these organisations shared knowledge and tools, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between Scouting and the wider youth sector.

The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Interamerican Scout Foundation (IASF), whose sponsorship helped bring this fully virtual Forum to life and ensure broader participation of youth across the Region.

Youth voices in action

The energy of the Forum was undeniable:

• 1,900+ chat messages and 1,900+ comments exchanged through the virtual platform.
• 655 attendees on screen, 559 poll votes, and 767 video reactions brought the dialogue to life.
• A post-event satisfaction score of 9.77/10, underscoring the Forum’s impact.

Beyond the numbers, the highlight was the participatory drafting of the Interamerican Youth Declaration 2025. Built from working group discussions and consolidated by the Declaration Committee, the Declaration expresses the priorities, concerns, and proposals of young people across the Americas and the Caribbean. It is not only a vision but a roadmap for collective action.

As the Declaration states, “We are united by the conviction that a more just, inclusive and sustainable world is possible. The change has already begun, and the youth of the Interamerican Region are leading the way.

A historic step

The Forum embodied its theme of “Building a world led by youth”, reminding everyone that youth leadership is not an exception but should be the norm. Through open dialogue, collaborative learning, and bold commitments, the young people of the Interamerican Region showed that they are not just preparing for the future — they are building it right now.

Go check the recap video