Throughout the week-long Commonwealth Asia Youth Alliance (CAYA) Summit and the Asia Regional Youth Ministers Meeting in Pakistan, more than 200 delegates from across Asia participated in intergenerational panel discussions, cultural activities, and training workshops designed to empower and position them for greater success.
One of the highlights of the summit held from 28 to 30 January 2025 was the launch of a state-of-the-art secretariat office for the Commonwealth Asia Youth Alliance at the Pak-China Friendship Centre in Islamabad. The office will serve as a hub for youth-led entrepreneurial initiatives and capacity-building programmes to strengthen economic opportunities for young people across Commonwealth Asian countries.
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Commenting on the significance of creating spaces and opportunities for young people to thrive, the Vice Chair of CAYA and Deputy President of the Malaysia Youth Council, Azman Azeez, stated:
“I gained valuable insights into the power of regional collaboration and the importance of youth-driven policymaking. The experience reinforced my commitment to strengthening youth engagement and amplifying young voices in decision-making spaces.
I deeply appreciate the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Team and the organising team for hosting such a well-organised and memorable event that fostered meaningful dialogue and regional unity.”
Empowering the next generation of youth leaders
The meeting brought together youth delegates from across Asia, who actively engaged in interactive discussions, practical exercises, and workshops that encouraged the exchange of ideas.
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A panel of entrepreneurs shared invaluable insights on creating employment opportunities and building sustainable businesses, sparking innovative ideas and thoughtful comments from participants. Youth delegates also participated in a capacity-building session on climate action, which is vital for ensuring equitable and sustainable development in the region.
In addition, participants engaged in a lively discussion about the importance of youth policies in fostering a supportive future to empower the next generation.
Some delegates like Daudh Ahmed Zilal spoke about the benefits of the sessions saying:
“I networked with representatives from National Youth Councils across the region, shared challenges, and learned about their innovative approaches to problem-solving, which was both inspiring and motivating.
It has encouraged me to work even harder, not just at a national level, but also on regional and international fronts, to address the common issues our youth face.”
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The young leaders were also treated to a masterclass on best practices in youth work and innovative engagement approaches for strengthening youth participation in governance and development, conducted by the Head of Social Policy Development at the Commonwealth Secretariat, Layne Robinson. In his address, he said:
“Youth work is a fundamental pillar of sustainable development and social progress. We are committed to engaging and empowering young people in the Asia region, where a significant proportion of the Commonwealth’s youth reside. We hope these events energise them to confront the serious challenges ahead if we are to drive meaningful change and transform the future for young people across the 56 member states.”
The summit concluded with a vibrant display of Pakistan’s rich culture through music, dance and cultural displays arranged by the Pakistan National Council of Arts. The Gandhara Cultural Festival showcased Pakistan’s heritage, the One Drum Musical Unity performance promoted connections through rhythm, and the Harfun Painting activity encouraged creative expression.
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The visits to the Pakistan Monument and Faisal Mosque further enriched participants’ appreciation of the country’s history and architectural beauty.
The summit also produced a strong statement, the Islamabad Declaration on Human Rights, prioritising young people as key actors in leadership and decision-making across the Commonwealth.
Media contact
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Ijeoma Onyeator Communications Officer, Communications Division, Commonwealth Secretariat
