Children and young people around the world are standing up to stand for children's rights around the world. This World Children's Day, we invite you to know nine UNICEF Youth Advocates and children's rights defenders who are driving change in their communities and get inspired by their stories.
Aisha, 16, Nigeria, girls’ rights advocate
“To those who want to take action for children’s rights, I say: just do it! You have the power to make a difference.”
Areej, 17, Yemen UNICEF Youth Advocate
“To me, peace is the most important thing because it’s the first right every child needs to be able to get the rest of their rights.”
Emmanuel, 17, UNICEF DRC Youth Advocate
“I dream of a world where children of all origins can play and walk hand in hand on a green planet, where every one of their rights is guaranteed and where they do not suffer the effects of climate change.”
Francisco, 15, UNICEF Youth Advocate for Latin America and the Caribbean
“My message to children and young people is that no matter how old we are, where are from, or where we are, we can all take action to transform our environments.”
Gauranshi, 17, India UNICEF Youth Advocate
“I want people to see that when we talk about inclusion, it’s not just a word. It's a world where every child, no matter their background or the challenges they may face, gets an equal chance to shine.”
Maria, 15, UNICEF East Caribbean Area Youth Advocate
“I just wish human beings would understand that the planet is a truly magical and beautiful place.”
Meryem, 15, Morocco UNICEF Youth Advocate
“A world with rights for every child would be a developed and conscious world, where every child can thrive and reach his or her full potential.”
Panagiotis, 13, Greece UNICEF Youth Advocate
“We should all join forces to achieve a better and more accessible world for every child, without any exemption.”
Simão, 17, Mozambique UNICEF Youth Advocate
“Only by working together, with all young people using their incredible talents, will we build a world where children's rights are respected.”