Youth Leaders with Socially Responsible Projects

Youth Leaders with Socially Responsible Projects

18 November 2023 | 1:00 PM | YouTube

Organized by the Set Them Free, Youth Leaders with Socially Responsible Projects was a comprehensive panel focused on youth leadership, social responsibility, and international engagement. The session brought together young leaders, students, and speakers who shared their experiences and insights on active participation in social projects, international programs, and community development.

The event opened with a warm welcome from the moderator, who introduced the purpose of the gathering: a platform where young people, who brought their initiatives into life, could discuss their projects and leadership experiences. The moderator emphasized that the event aimed to motivate youth to participate actively in social responsibility efforts, both locally and internationally, and highlighted the importance of small steps, initiative, and collaboration.

The session started with the introduction remarks of Hafza Girdap, Co-Founder of Set Them Free, who shared her academic and advocacy work, focusing on international programs such as the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) youth projects with the UN, and her research on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She explained how participating in these programs significantly contributed to her understanding of global issues, especially women’s rights, climate change, and sustainable development. Ms. Girdap detailed her experience of participating at the CSW and how it provided her with invaluable insights into the UN system, advocacy, and international cooperation. She stressed that young people must participate, be a part of the global discussions, emphasizing the importance of small steps, utilizing networks, and self-initiative in starting international projects.

Tahir Eygoren, a 16-year-old high school student from California, was the next speaker. He recounted his volunteer work in Indonesia, where he engaged in aid activities, donations, and cultural exchanges. Tahir highlighted that engaging with different cultures and helping those in need gave him a perspective beyond his own environment. He shared his experience of distributing aid, participating in donations, and cultural activities such as sightseeing trips. Tahir pointed out that even modest initiatives like fundraising or organizing cultural events could have significant societal effects. He motivated his peers to start small, use their existing networks, and take initiative regardless of their age or experience, emphasizing that collective efforts can lead to meaningful change.

The subsequent speakers, Bera Turetken and Bahriye Agu, shared their journeys in leadership, community service, and cultural engagement. Bera, a senior at Brooklyn College, talked about his leadership in public speaking clubs, internship experiences at L’Oréal, and his volunteer work with interfaith and cultural organizations. Bera highlighted how participating in organizations like Toastmasters improved her communication and leadership skills, which are essential for personal and professional development. He stressed that taking advantage of opportunities, networking, and continuously improving oneself are key for success.

Bahriye Agu, a senior student in neuroscience and behavioral biology, reflected on her experiences as a Turkish American, her involvement in cultural and social programs, and her efforts to connect with community organizations. She talked about her participation in cultural festivals, such as Turkish festivals and community dinners, which foster intercultural understanding and friendship. Bahriye emphasized that small actions like organizing iftar dinners or cultural festivals can build bridges between different communities. She shared her experience of connecting with Turkish cultural centers and participating in events that promote cultural exchange and social cohesion.

The panel also covered practical advice for young people interested in starting social projects or participating in international programs. The speakers advised on how to utilize existing networks, start small, and take consistent action. They emphasized the importance of thorough research, setting clear goals, and building genuine relationships based on sincerity and shared values. Additionally, the speakers underscored that every action, no matter how small, can contribute to larger societal change.

Throughout the session, questions from viewers expressed curiosity about how to build networks, start projects, and overcome challenges such as shyness or lack of experience. The speakers provided detailed answers, encouraging participants to take small steps, practice communication skills, and seek mentorship. They emphasized that building confidence gradually and focusing on meaningful relationships are crucial for success.

The event also highlighted several examples of youth-led initiatives. Tahir recounted his experience of organizing a “Field Day” event with his youth group, involving games and activities for children, which helped build community connections and foster a sense of service. Bera shared her experience of organizing fundraising events like charity dinners and cultural festivals, which not only raised funds but also increased cultural awareness. Bahriye discussed her efforts in establishing intercultural dialogue events, such as Thanksgiving dinners that brought together diverse communities in New York.

In addition, the speakers stressed the importance of cultural exchange and intercultural understanding. Bahriye mentioned her involvement in programs that bring together people from different backgrounds, and Tahir talked about how traveling and participating in humanitarian aid trips broadened his worldview. Hafsa pointed out that engaging in international forums like the CSW and SDG panels allows youth to see the bigger picture and develop solutions for global issues.

The event concluded with a motivational emphasis on the power of small actions and the importance of maintaining a proactive attitude. The organizers and speakers thanked the audience for their participation, encouraging everyone to take initiative, leverage their networks, and pursue their passions for social good. They shared their contact information for further engagement and emphasized that every positive effort counts towards building a better society.

Overall, this panel served as an inspiring platform for youth leadership, providing concrete examples, practical advice, and motivation for young people to actively contribute to their communities and the world. The event underscored that with sincerity, effort, and collaboration, anyone can make a meaningful difference, regardless of age or experience.

PANELIST: 

Sueda Polat, Graduate Student at Columbia University – Atlanta

Bera Turetken, Undergraduate Student at Brooklyn College – New York 

Bahriye Agu, Undergraduate Student at Emory University – Atlanta

Tahir Eygoren, High-School Student at Magnolia Science Academy – California