International Youth Day 2025: Youth with SBH leading the way

International Youth Day and why it matters 

Established by the United Nations, August 12th has marked the celebration of International Youth Day (IYD) for many years. Since it was first observed in 2000, this global event has provided a valuable opportunity for youth around the world to address the challenges they face and to advocate for meaningful change. 

This year’s theme, ‘Youth localising the SDGs’ highlights the importance of empowering young people to take action and turn the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into real local impact in their own communities. Thus, youth all around the world are encouraged to find creative and practical ways to drive change and help bridge the gap between policy and practice. 

To celebrate this important day, the IF International Youth Group SBH organised a webinar under the theme ‘Dreaming Beyond Barriers’. The event brought together young people with disabilities and youth activists from across the globe to share their dreams, discuss the challenges they encounter, and explore ways to advocate for a more inclusive future.

Youth leading the way – IF International Youth Group SBH 

The webinar opened with welcoming remarks from Jurn Anthonis and Maahi Rudawat, co-chairs of the IF International Youth Group SBH. They then provided a brief overview of the Youth Group, outlining its scope of work and key objectives. 

Jurn explained that the current nine members come from around the world and work together to address issues relevant for youth with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (SBH) through advocacy and networking. He also reflected on the 30th International Conference on Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus in Malaysia and its main outcome, the Kuala Lumpur Declaration, which reaffirmed global commitment to advancing the rights and inclusion of people with SBH. 

Next, the session shifted focus to this year’s International Youth Day, with Maahi Rudawat, introducing the theme ‘Dreaming Beyond Barriers’, a theme chosen by the IF International Youth Group SBH to reflect their vision and aspirations. She emphasised that individuals born with spina bifida should never be defined by their challenges but rather dare to live beyond boundaries set by others’ expectations. Dreams are after all, she believes, the first steps towards change, and

“a call to every young heart to imagine a world where limits are only stepping stones”.

Living our stories: Hopes, dreams & realities  

The first roundtable discussion explored the question ‘What is your dream and how do you make it reality?’ where two members from the IF International Youth Group SBH shared their hopes, dreams and their journey so far in making them reality.  

Dr. Nebiyat Tesfaye – born with Spina Bifida in Ethiopia, described disability as his greatest teacher – one that led him to discover something powerful on his journey: Hope. Now a doctor, he works at a hospital where children with Spina Bifida are treated. As Technical Director for ReachAnother Foundation, he also shared his vision of a future where every child born with neural tube defects can live a full life. He further emphasised the importance of advocacy and awareness raising on folic acid and food fortification. In order to realise this dream, Nebiyat continuously works to help build a bridge by actively speaking at meetings, partnering with NGOs and government bodies.  

Not all barriers are physical. Some are built by fear, doubt and low expectations. Viktoria Peykova, member from Bulgaria reflected on this reality and shared that these were the most challenging walls in her life. Refusing to be defined by them, she spoke up about her determination to live beyond those limits. She shared how one person’s belief in her transformed her journey and helped her dream big. Studying to be a teacher, she is now hoping to be the same source of encouragement for someone else and inspire children with disabilities to see the beauty within themselves.  

Reflections from Adulthood: Perspectives on Ageing with Spina Bifida 

The second roundtable invited reflections from members of the IF Working Group on Ageing with SBH who shared their perspective on living with spina bifida in adulthood, navigating work experiences, challenges, hopes and dreams.  

Su Xiao Vin from Malaysia shared her personal journey, highlighting her aspirations, challenges and values that guide her. From a young age on she dreamed of becoming a healthcare professional – driven by the desire to better understand and manage conditions such as spina bifida. Now, working as a pharmacist, she offered insights into her daily responsibilities and realities including mobility difficulties, the demands of shift work as well as the mental fatigue balancing a team.   

Her central message emphasised the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone: Even under pressure it is essential to keep pushing forward and always have the courage to ask for help. Her advice to others: Take time for yourself, persevere through challenges and surround yourself with a reliable support network.  

The final speaker, chair of the IF Working Group on Ageing with SBH, shared a deeply personal journey, beginning with the strong support she received from those who stood by her side despite a challenging diagnosis at birth. This network of encouragement became the foundation for her resilience, enabling her to graduate from college against the odds.  

She emphasised the importance of flexibility, positive attitude and resilience, highlighting that dreams may take new forms but can still bring deep fulfilment. After having to let one dream go, she discovered another passion: Writing. Through words she found a way to express herself, raise awareness on disability, and champion diversity and inclusion. Today, as a published author, she uses her voice to inspire others to recognise the strength within themselves and to turn any adversity into opportunity.

A Shared Conversation: Youth Voices from Around the World 

Lastly, participants from different countries were invited to engage directly with the speakers and share their thoughts on important subjects they advocate for on this International Youth Day. This interactive segment created a lively exchange of ideas and allowed attendees to share personal stories and reflect on their own journeys as well. 

There was also a shared interest in becoming more involved, with some attendees expressing interest in supporting or joining the IF International Youth Group SBH – demonstrating a growing sense of community and engagement.  

Key highlights included: 

• Accessibility
  It remains a major issue in many countries, including Belgium and India, with the audience noting challenges in both physical spaces and broader societal structures. One speaker reflected on his experience attending special schools, and how he realised that the wider world is often not designed for people with disabilities. 
• Community
  Several participants spoke about the importance of communities that remove barriers, foster understanding and focus on abilities rather than disabilities. They also advocated for quality healthcare, inclusive education, and accessible workplaces as essential pillars for equality. 
• Support Networks & Mentorship
  Speakers from the IF Youth Group and the Working Group on Ageing highlighted the importance of strong support networks—including friends, community, and social circles— and the part they play in their personal and professional journeys. They shared that participating in social activities and engaging with various Spina Bifida organisations provided them with mentorship, guidance and can help young people build confidence and discover strengths they might not have realised they had. 

Looking Ahead 

The ‘Dreaming Beyond Barriers’ webinar showed the power of young people with disabilities to inspire, advocate, and lead change. Through their personal stories, participants highlighted resilience, the importance of support networks, and the need for inclusive opportunities. 

As the IF International Youth Group SBH looks to the future, the event reinforced a central truth: Youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also changemakers today – daring to dream beyond barriers and working to build a more inclusive world. 

You can watch the webinar on YouTube here