27 August 2008

Sana'a, Yemen: UNV and its partners promoted volunteerism for young people in Yemen during celebrations on International Youth Day (IYD).

The IYD 2008 celebration themed 'Youth: Life and Hope' took place in the biggest shopping mall in the capital, Sana'a. The mall is one of the city's main youth gathering spots. During the event, UNV stressed the concept of volunteerism, its distinctive role in development, and its impact on the whole community. The message was widely delivered throughout the day and via media coverage across Yemen.

The event included various workshops and discussions on Yemeni youth and how to use and orient their potential. The agenda also included educational topics such as 'The importance of reading'. A day-long session on 'Volunteerism and its benefit to the community' conducted by UNV focused on the importance of obtaining life goals and listening to youth voices and dreams.

In addition, individuals and groups presented successful youth voluntary initiatives that had made an impact on the community. "It was really encouraging to witness the commitment of many young Yemenis willing to take action to improve living conditions and the opportunities available in their country," said Agnese Pinto, a UNV volunteer Programme Officer with UNDP who facilitated during the day.

Youth also discussed 'Common behaviours of youth in Yemen' and how to use and orient 'youth energy', screening video plays developed and prepared by the youth themselves. International Youth Day in Sana'a included lighter-hearted activities such as a puzzle game to encourage teamwork. The competition took place all over the mall with the participation of the local businesses.

The celebration gave UNV a chance to partner with a variety of organizations from Government (such as the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Social Affairs), the private sector and local NGOs. "I was very impressed by the effort and enthusiasm showed by the Youth Media Forum in organizing the event," said Carlotta Tincati, a UNV volunteer intern working in the office of United Nations Resident Coordinator in Yemen, referring to one of the main NGOs involved.