“UNFPA stands with you to empower you, to create, to innovate, and to lead change in your communities.”

Dr. James Okara Wanyama, UNFPA Ethiopia Humanitarian Program Coordinator

On August 12, 2025, the Adwa Museum in Addis Ababa came alive with color, conversation, and creativity as young people gathered to mark International Youth Day. This year’s celebration was a vibrant showcase of talent, ideas, and action, offering a space where youth could express themselves, explore solutions to pressing challenges, and connect with one another.

A Celebration of Art, Theater, Science, and Games

The day’s program reflected the diversity of young people’s passions and talents.

• Art exhibition featuring  Bekerket Zeleke captured powerful messages about resilience, equality, and hope, offering visual reflections on the bright world young people want to see.

• Forum theater performances, led by a talented group from the National Theater in Addis Ababa, tackled social issues like gender-based violence in an engaging, interactive format that encouraged dialogue and problem-solving.

• Science showcases sparked curiosity, inviting attendees to discover the wonders of space exploration and new technologies.

• Mobile game innovations demonstrated how digital tools can be harnessed for education, advocacy, and positive change.

Youth Voices at the Heart

For many, the day left a lasting impression.

“The theater was my favorite part,” said Enku Mulat. “It made me think about how we can talk about serious issues in a way that everyone understands.”

“I’m so happy I got to see the art exhibition,” shared Selamawit Yemer. “It showed me how powerful young people’s ideas can be.”

Innovation with Purpose

Every display and performance was tied to a larger mission, empowering communities, promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights, and ending gender-based violence. The activities were not only creative expressions but also tools for advocacy and action.

The event also introduced youth to digital platforms like Abeba, a chatbot and website providing friendly, confidential, and accurate information on mental health, HIV, GBV, and other critical issues. This integration of art, dialogue, and technology reflected UNFPA’s commitment to equipping young people with knowledge, skills, and platforms to lead change.

Shaping the Present, Building the Future

International Youth Day 2025 was a powerful reminder that young people are not just preparing for the future, they are actively shaping the present. Through their art, science, and innovations, they are showing that bold ideas can drive transformation today.