BAM Collective and NorthPine Foundation Empowering Refugees on a Global Stage at the Youth Assembly in New York

BAM Collective, in collaboration with Youth Assembly Ambassador Khaled Abdulwahed and the Northpine Foundation, recently teamed up for an inspiring mission. We partnered on sending two refugee delegates to the New York Youth Assembly, equipped to learn, advocate, and bring back invaluable knowledge to support fellow refugees in Canada. This joint effort not only highlights the strength of our partnerships but also reflects our unwavering commitment to giving refugees a powerful voice on the global stage.

In August 2023, the Youth Assembly conference was hosted in New York City, bringing young leaders and change-makers from more than 100 countries. Each participant brought with them an interest in global issues and a promise of leadership potential.

As a refuge-founded collective, BAM Collective is dedicated to serving refugees and empowering underrepresented youth and women. We firmly believe in the empowerment of refugees and we work to equip them with resources and provide them with a seat at the table, enabling them to influence and shape their own futures. The North Pine Foundation's generous support was instrumental in making this delegation possible, for which we extend our heartfelt appreciation.

Our selected delegates, Delal Hagos, an Eritrean refugee, and a new Canadian, and Khaled Almouktaran, a Syrian refugee, also a new Canadian, have participated in multiple meetings, events, and workshops at the assembly. These experiences not only enriched their knowledge but also allowed them to form meaningful connections and share their own wealth of experiences upon their return.

In the following sections, our delegates will provide insight into their impactful experiences at the New York National Youth Assembly. Their stories serve as a testament to the potential unlocked through collaborative efforts and the remarkable resilience and strength inherent in every refugee.

Delal Hagos - Refugee Delegate

????In August 2023, I had the privilege of participating in the Youth Assembly conference in the heart of New York City. It was a thrilling experience representing Canada in a diverse gathering of over 600 delegates from more than 100 countries. As a global health student at York University, I found that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) closely align with the multidisciplinary, intersectional aspects of health and other social issues that I study and work on.

??The conference commenced with a remarkable event commemorating Youth Day at the United Nations headquarters in New York, setting the tone for the subsequent two days of engaging sessions. These included thought-provoking panel discussions, inspirational speakers, and interactive workshops.

???During the conference, we had the opportunity to delve into seminars focusing on three critical issues: reducing inequalities by combating poverty and gender disparities, promoting education and employment, and safeguarding our environment. The closing night was a cultural fest where participants proudly showcased their diverse cultural apparel and national flags.

??Participating in the discourse and sharing space with brilliant and driven individuals who understand the urgency of taking action toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda was a true honor.

???As a global health student and a refugee, this conference prompted deep reflection on my journey, my positionality, the systemic barriers I've faced, and the importance of addressing these challenges to create meaningful impact. It also reminded me to appreciate the privileges I now have.

??From a global health perspective, refugees represent a subset of the world's population profoundly affected by the issues encompassed by the SDGs, with a particular emphasis on poverty, education, health, and inequality. Including refugees in these discussions is essential as it acknowledges the importance of their unique experiences and requirements, contributing to a more comprehensive and globally representative approach to pursuing the SDGs.

??One remarkable aspect of these conferences is the powerful platform they provide for youth to voice their experiences and perspectives. It empowers them to advocate for their rights and those of their communities. By sharing their stories and shedding light on the challenges they face, youth can raise awareness among policymakers and the public, garnering support for initiatives that benefit underserved populations. It ensures their specific concerns are considered in decision-making processes, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and representative approach to achieving global goals.

??As previously mentioned, the conference offered a wealth of workshops and panel discussions covering various topics related to the SDGs. This allowed participants to acquire valuable knowledge and skills, empowering them to become leaders and advocates within their communities. The long-term impact of such capacity building is immeasurable.

??Another significant outcome of the conference was the networking opportunities it provided. Connecting with fellow youths and organizations in the sustainable development field opens doors to collaboration, partnerships, and mentorship. These connections are instrumental in implementing projects that benefit refugee populations.

??The conference's diverse attendees, from various backgrounds and regions, created a rich mosaic of experiences. Interacting with individuals from different cultures allowed me to gain fresh insights and learn innovative approaches to addressing social determinants of health and development challenges. It reinforced the idea that, despite our differences, we all share a common humanity. This is a memory I will cherish forever.

??As a former refugee, I am always reminded of the stigma and misconceptions that surround our community. However, by participating in this conference, I became part of a movement aimed at reducing this stigma and promoting empathy among the international community. We were collectively challenging stereotypes and advocating for a more compassionate view of refugees.

??Finally, my journey as a global health student attending an SDG conference has been nothing short of life-changing. It has reinforced the belief that I possess the potential to be a powerful agent of change due to my intersectionality. These conferences offer a vital platform for youth to realize that potential, drive positive transformation in our lives, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable world for all. From displacement to empowerment, my journey continues, and I am more determined than ever to be a catalyst for change and make a lasting impact.

Khaled Almouktaran - Refugee Delegate

Refugees represent a segment of the global population directly affected by the challenges addressed by the SDGs, particularly those related to poverty, education, health, and inequality. Refugees' participation ensures that their unique perspectives and needs are considered, contributing to a more inclusive and representative approach to achieving global goals.

The principle of "Leave No One Behind" is central to the SDGs. Including refugees in conferences aligns with this principle and ensures that marginalized and vulnerable populations are noticed in pursuing sustainable development.

This year, I had the privilege of participating in two remarkable events that introduced me to the world of global youth empowerment and cultural exchange. These experiences were unforgettable: International Youth Day at the United Nations Headquarters and the AFS Youth Assembly. They did not just broaden my horizons; they also strengthened my belief in the incredible power of youth to drive positive change on a global scale.

The events gathered young individuals from all around the globe. I felt fortunate as I sat among the audience, listening to personal stories from enthusiastic youth activists, determined advocates, and forward-thinking leaders who are actively molding and revitalizing their communities. Their narratives struck a chord within me, leaving behind an enduring impression of inspiration and optimism for a better tomorrow.

I participated in interactive workshops that dove into critical global issues such as climate change, gender equality, and social justice. These sessions encouraged open dialogue and brainstorming of innovative solutions.

I had the opportunity to share my story of transformation during the "Stories of Change: Youth Inspiring Action for a Better Future" session in the SDG Zone. This allowed me to connect with young individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. These interactions cultivated a sense of fellowship and the understanding that young people globally share a mutual passion for creating a positive impact.

It is crucial to advocate for including more refugee participants in global events like the Youth Assembly. This recommendation is born out of a belief in the power of diversity and the unique contributions that refugees can bring to such gatherings.

Increasing the presence of refugees at global events like the Youth Assembly is essential. It's not merely a matter of inclusivity; it represents an investment in fostering more meaningful discussions, profound empathy, and improved problem-solving. Such inclusion provides an opportunity to demonstrate solidarity with refugees and collaborate towards a more inclusive and equitable world.

In conclusion, including refugee participants in conferences related to the SDGs is a matter of justice and a pragmatic approach to addressing global challenges. Their involvement ensures that the people inform discussions and strategies most directly affected and that solutions are more inclusive, effective, and sustainable.

Khaled Abdulwahed - Youth Assembly Ambassador

As I reflect on my role as a first-year ambassador at the Youth Assembly 28, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride. This remarkable experience, coupled with the special recognition our project "Until The Last Tent" received with my team " Molham team", has left an indelible mark on my journey as a youth ambassador.

When I initially applied for this role, I made a personal commitment to myself – a promise to strive relentlessly to bring the voices of refugees to this incredible global platform. My goal was to bring refugees to the table where more than 600 youths from over 100 countries would gather, share ideas, and collaborate on solutions to the world's most pressing issues. It was my aspiration to be counted among the best ambassadors for YA28, and I did receive recognition as one of the best ambassadors for YA28

As a youth, I firmly believe in the power of youth. I believe in our capacity to drive change, challenge the status quo, and shape a future that is not only better but also more inclusive and equitable. This belief is what propelled me forward throughout my tenure as an ambassador.

One of the most profound lessons I've learned from my experience at Youth Assembly 28 is that we, as youth, hold the key to addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We possess the innovation, energy, and determination required to tackle the complex challenges facing our world. Our collective actions and voices are catalysts for meaningful change.

My message to fellow youth who are passionate about the SDGs is simple: seize the opportunity to apply for the next Youth Assembly. It is a platform where you can share your experiences, connect with like-minded individuals, and gain invaluable insights from those who share your commitment to making the world a better place.

BAM Collective: BAM Collective is Ontario’s first youth-led collective that empowers equity-deserving youth through policy, art, innovation, and community engagement.

Special thanks to the Northpine Foundation and Khaled Abdulwahed, the National Youth Assembly Ambassador, for their unwavering support and instrumental roles in making this mission a reality. To our exceptional delegates, Delal Hagos and Khaled Almouktaran, your tireless efforts and passionate representation have been nothing short of inspiring. Together, we've taken a significant step towards amplifying the voices of refugees, and for that, we stand united in hope for a brighter, more inclusive future.

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