The Commonwealth Secretariat, in partnership with the Khalili Foundation and Peace One Day, will host a celebratory event live from our headquarters at Marlborough House on 12 August. The day will include launches, inspiring interviews and engaging content from Year of Youth activities.


During the Commonwealth Year of Youth, the pivotal role of young people in driving progress within the Commonwealth, showcasing their contributions across various sectors including social development, education, and community leadership has been highlighted. This celebration on International Youth Day serves as a powerful testament to their vibrant energy, strong vision and innovative spirit.

Activities include:

Launch of a virtual museum

This innovative digital space celebrates 50 years of the Commonwealth Youth programme, curated by young people across the Commonwealth, and showcases the achievements and contributions of young people as well as the work of the Secretariat.

Live broadcast with Peace One Day

The event, which will feature music, interviews and messages from celebrities and eminent individuals, will be broadcast live on the Commonwealth Youth programme’s social media channels, on X(formerly Twitter)Instagram and Facebook, as well as the Peace One Day platforms.

Commonwealth Music Relay showcase

Coordinated by Commonwealth Resounds, young artists from various Commonwealth countries have reinterpreted one song, celebrating cultural diversity and unity through music. The relay aims to highlight the power of music in bringing people together and fostering a sense of shared identity.

10 Years of the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC)

Showcasing the achievements of the CYC and their impact as well as paving the way for the next generation of leaders for the upcoming elections.

Launch of the 2025 Commonwealth Youth Awards

Recognising young people who have made significant contributions to society and development by honouring and celebrating youth leadership and activism, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.

A New Approach to Finance in Commonwealth Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

At this event, the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Centre for Resilience and Sustainable Development (CRSD) will unveil the final report for the Their Future, Our Action project. The event will feature a distinguished panel that will discuss the Common Pool Asset Structuring Strategy (COMPASS), an innovative financial model designed to enhance the capacity of 33 Commonwealth SIDS to access sustainable finance and build resilient economies with a particular focus on attracting funding for youth initiatives and biodiversity projects. Register for this event here.

How to register and attend the event 

Register your interest to attend, live or online, by emailing [email protected]