Falling on August 12, International Youth Day is an international holiday to enhance awareness regarding the challenges and difficulties youngsters face, including children with learning disabilities, homeless children, and those living in areas where the conditions are backward, even not paying attention to youngsters and misunderstanding counts. Are you ready for more yet? Let's dive in!

The history of the celebration dates back to 1965 when the problems of the youths were first noticed by the United Nations General Assembly, and most importantly, they reacted. Finally, it was when the United Nations General Assembly supported us, the youths, and devoted time and energy to making us youths noticed and protected. Also, by providing the new generation with more resources, they made young leaders recognized.

This holiday was first celebrated on the 12th of August, 2000. From then on, this day is still used to educate society and youths started participating in solving the political problems around the world. However, this day is more often observed by organising big events with a different theme each year. Education and taking action have been popular themes for the past several years. For instance, the theme of 2019 was "Transforming Education". Much as the name suggests, there were efforts to make education more inclusive and fair to all children, whatever nationality, race, or age you are.

If you can't make it to large meetings like these, don't worry! Here are a few other ways to observe the day:

1. Learn about sustainable development.
2. Support and/or endorse International Youth Day and other youth organisations.
3. Spread the word.
4. Concerts, diversity workshops, and many other cultural events. Just imagine!
5. Youth TED-style talks given.

And honestly, there are heaps more! Anyway, as long as you find a way of celebrating this day that you enjoy, then that could be enough. Isn't this the day when we speak out openly and share our opinions, and different methods of problem solving, in the first place?

Well, in a nutshell, International Youth Day is a day of reflection and undertaking actions so that youths are noticed and respected. In addition, this is the day when the stunning talents and strengths of youngsters are honoured and appreciated. Now, there's just one thing to say to you now that you've read this article:

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY!

Written by: Lily
Edited by: Marlee Potter
Proofread by: Connor Callahan