This year’s International Youth Day theme, ‘Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,’ invites us to hold two truths together: every young person’s reality deserves to be understood, and every young person’s potential deserves room to grow. When they have access to knowledge, meaningful participation and pathways to leadership, their aspirations become solutions that strengthen their communities and enrich our shared future. Their curiosity brings new perspectives, their courage expands possibility, and their sense of connection reminds us that progress is strongest when it includes every voice. On International Youth Day, I honour young people whose imagination and actions shape the world. Together, through creativity and shared purpose, let us continue building a future where they have every opportunity to realise their potential and contribute to a more connected and hopeful tomorrow.