Sallies Village resident Lerato Maris is embarking on one of the most fulfilling highlights of her youth activism journey as she attends the 13th International Youth Conference as a delegate through innovative diplomacy in advancing youth peace and security.

The conference is taking place in Los Angeles, USA, from May 21 to 24.

According to Maris, the main focus will be on concrete strategies for grassroots youth to engage with and reform formal institutions like the United Nations and regional bodies such as the European Union.

It will examine pathways for meaningful youth participation in processes like the implementation and review of sustainable development goals, ensuring that multilateral diplomacy is more inclusive, accountable, and responsive to the needs of communities on the ground.

The dialogues will aim to demystify these institutions, bringing the UN and EU closer to youth leaders and equipping them to navigate and influence the multilateral system.

They will explore how youth can shape international perceptions and build bridges of trust through non-traditional channels.

ALSO READ: Letter: Weekend bike mayhem turns quiet street into ‘race track’

Discussions will focus on the role of storytelling, media, arts, sports, and digital platforms in fostering mutual understanding and combating disinformation.

“Being part of this movement, representing South African youth, is a privilege and honour because it means we, as youth, are moving into the right direction when it comes to voicing the change we want for our communities and as a nation,” said Maris.

“It’s amazing to be a symbol of that representation, coming from the small town of Brakpan and being part of massive organisations that show youth can and are the actual changemakers and decision-makers on a global scale.”

In April, Maris was awarded the Best Ambassador of the Year title by Global Peace Chain, an international organisation dedicated to peacebuilding and interfaith harmony.

“I truly wish the youth of Brakpan would take advantage of spaces for philanthropy and advocacy, even online by researching organisations that resonate with them and the causes they want to champion, because change really does begin with us and consistency is key,” said Maris.

ALSO READ: Ouma getraumatiseer ná gewapende rooftog by Hoërskool Die Anker