Global Society Institute opens pathways for youth leadership

Global Society Institute opens pathways for youth leadership | Photo: Nick Abrams

Today, institutional credibility is increasingly defined by who is included in decision-making processes and when that inclusion occurs. For organisations working in global society, sustainability, and democratic resilience, governance frameworks that leave out younger generations risk becoming structurally obsolete. The Global Society Institute’s establishment of a Youth Advisory Board represents a strategic adjustment, positioning youth insight as a fundamental component of policy development and assessment rather than a symbolic gesture.

Research shows that incorporating youth perspectives at early stages of project design enhances adaptability, minimizes generational blind spots, and strengthens social legitimacy. Young leaders contribute first-hand knowledge of digital transformation, educational disruption, and changing labour markets—factors that significantly influence the long-term impact of global initiatives. This approach closely aligns with the inclusive governance principles of SDG 16, particularly its emphasis on accountable and participatory institutions.

A new generation shaping global action

The GSI Youth Advisory Board functions through a one-year volunteer mandate, convening once per trimester with a representative of the board of directors. Its mandate is intentionally action-oriented. Members evaluate the progress and relevance of current projects and collaboratively draft directive texts that are submitted directly to the board. This structure ensures that youth perspectives are integrated into formal decision-making processes rather than consulted after the fact.

The inaugural cohort reflects a wide spectrum of academic fields, cultural backgrounds, and civic experiences, mirroring the multifaceted challenges GSI addresses.

Mohamed Ben Mussa Hamed, 20, is the first coordinator of the board. studies international trade with an expanding focus on political science and global society initiatives. He is actively involved in developing youth workshops on democratic participation and has participated in international training programmes on intercultural dialogue in Norway, Italy, Bulgaria, and Spain. His work bridges economics, governance, and civic education, offering insight into how trade and political participation influence social cohesion.

Alba Rodriguez, 17, brings experience from both school-level and municipal governance through her roles on a student council and a local board of education. In addition to her civic involvement, she is a scuba diver and musician, interests that shape her awareness of environmental and cultural issues. She plans to study the intersection of biology and technology, focusing on robotics and prosthetics, enabling her to contribute perspectives on innovation, health, and ethical design.

Fabio Parzych, 17, is a multilingual science student and an elected member of his school government. He has taken part in international youth leadership programmes in Italy and Bulgaria, where he strengthened skills in collaboration and cross-cultural dialogue. Aspiring to study nautical engineering, Fabio highlights issues related to maritime systems, sustainable transport, and the future of marine infrastructure.

Santiago Santos, 16, is a Spanish-Canadian student interested in mathematics, data analysis, and economic systems. Chosen to represent Andalucia in the Ruta Quetzal programme, he has shown early leadership and academic potential. His goal of studying mathematics supports a strong analytical mindset, valuable for evidence-based evaluation and long-term strategic planning.

Noor Aghbaria, 23, contributes advanced technical and organisational expertise. A computer scientist, activist, and community leader, she serves as a community coordinator for Tech2Peace and is a former Model United Nations delegate. With professional experience in logistics and project management, Noor provides practical insight into how complex initiatives are designed, implemented, and scaled.

Youth governance as a strategic imperative

The design and composition of the GSI Youth Advisory Board reflect a broader shift in leadership models—from age-based hierarchy to competence-driven contribution. Comparative research on youth engagement shows that advisory bodies with diverse educational and cultural profiles are better positioned to identify emerging risks and opportunities, particularly in rapidly changing technological and social environments.

By formally acknowledging members through public profiles, certification, and professional support, GSI affirms that youth participation holds both professional and civic significance. More importantly, it demonstrates a commitment to inclusive governance that goes beyond consultation and moves toward shared responsibility.

As institutions respond to growing complexity and heightened public scrutiny, governance models that meaningfully integrate younger generations may be essential—not only to remain future-ready, but to achieve effectiveness in the present.