International Youth Day may have passed you by in previous years, but it’s one of the most important events for promoting global change.
A key awareness day for issues facing young people today, we’re on a mission to spread the word about it this year.
So, why is International Youth Day celebrated?
Did you know that we currently have the largest generation of youth in history?
The numbers are still growing, but there are already 1.8 billion people aged 10 to 24, and almost 90% of them live in developing countries.
In a world full of challenging issues - and in a world that’s constantly evolving - it’s only natural that young people have become one of the most influential groups for driving change.
But, without the skills, knowledge and opportunity, they might not be able to reach their full potential, and that could have huge consequences on the future of our planet.
That’s where International Youth Day comes in…
What is the United Nations' International Youth Day?
International Youth Day was introduced by the United Nations as a way to raise awareness of the global issues facing the youth of today.
First held in the year 2000, it uses discussions, campaigns, events and activities to give young people a voice while celebrating the positive impact they have on the planet.
When is International Youth Day celebrated?
International Youth Day is commemorated on the 12th of August, and each year is dedicated to one specific issue.
For example, International Youth Day 2020 aimed to raise awareness of ‘Youth Engagement for Global Action’, while the theme of International Youth Day 2020 was ‘Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health'.
What is the theme of International Youth Day 2020?
This year’s International Youth Day message is ‘Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages'.
With a focus on how ageism can prevent people from reaching their full potential, the goal is to encourage unity across all age groups in order to protect the planet.
What are the Sustainable Development Goals?
In a nutshell, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the UN’s plan for reaching a sustainable future.
These 17 goals - which tackle the world’s most pressing issues - were originally outlined in The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and were embraced by UN member states in 2015.
The 17 SDGs include:
No poverty
Zero hunger
Good health & well-being
Quality education
Gender equality
Clean water & sanitation
Affordable & clean energy
Decent work & economic growth
Industry, innovation & infrastructure
Reduced inequalities
Sustainable cities & communities
Responsible consumption & production
Climate action
Life below water
Life on land
Peace, justice & strong institutions
Partnerships for the goals
With their fresh ideas and new ways of thinking, young people have the potential to make the greatest steps in achieving these goals.
But, this can be impossible with the restrictions caused by ageism and other social issues, hence the need for this year's International Youth Day theme.
So, where does EroeGo come in?
Believe it or not, our grocery boxes go a long way toward hitting some of these Sustainable Development Goals.
Since they are full of fresh produce that was destined to be wasted, these boxes not only promote responsible consumption but save resources as well, helping with climate action.
We’re also reducing inequality and promoting good health by making this healthy, fresh produce more accessible and affordable.
Plus, with every box delivered, we donate 2 meals to people facing hunger in the UAE to help achieve zero hunger.
EroeGo is also a family-friendly company. We’re all about encouraging everyone - young and old - to get together through their love of fresh, sustainable food.
After all, what better way to bond than over a fun afternoon cooking together, and having the whole family round to enjoy the delicious results?
We hope that by purchasing one of our sustainable boxes this month, our customers will find that intergenerational unity encouraged by International Youth Day 2022.
How can I get involved in International Youth Day?
Looking for some International Youth Day activity ideas?
Try organising a debate on ageism, or a discussion about how young people help to combat global issues.
Put together a concert or exhibition that raises awareness of International Youth Day, or contact a local radio station about airing a discussion on global issues with local young people.
Even by simply spreading the word on social media, you’ll be raising awareness of these complex issues facing young people today.