(Commonwealth_ Throughout the week-long Commonwealth Asia Youth Alliance (CAYA) Summit and the Asia Regional Youth Ministers Meeting held in Pakistan, more than 200 delegates from across Asia gathered to engage in a dynamic program that included intergenerational panel discussions, cultural activities, and training workshops. These events were designed to empower young people and equip them with the skills and connections necessary for greater success in today’s rapidly evolving world.
A key highlight of the summit, which ran from 28 to 30 January 2025, was the inauguration of a modern secretariat office for the Commonwealth Asia Youth Alliance at the Pak-China Friendship Centre in Islamabad. This state-of-the-art office is set to become a vital hub for youth-led entrepreneurial ventures and capacity-building programs aimed at enhancing economic opportunities for young people in Commonwealth Asian countries. The initiative underscores a commitment to creating platforms where innovative ideas can flourish and where youth can be directly involved in policy-making processes.
Azman Azeez, the Vice Chair of CAYA and Deputy President of the Malaysia Youth Council, expressed his enthusiasm about the summit, stating, “I gained valuable insights into the power of regional collaboration and the importance of youth-driven policymaking. The experience reinforced my commitment to strengthening youth engagement and amplifying young voices in decision-making spaces.” His remarks highlighted the importance of intergenerational dialogue and the role of young leaders in shaping the future.
During the summit, youth delegates had ample opportunities to interact and share ideas through interactive discussions and practical exercises. One of the breakout sessions featured a panel of entrepreneurs who offered invaluable insights into creating sustainable businesses and generating employment opportunities. Their practical advice and shared experiences ignited innovative ideas among the participants and set the stage for collaborative efforts to tackle regional challenges.
In addition to entrepreneurship, the summit also placed a strong emphasis on capacity-building in critical areas. One session was dedicated to climate action, where delegates explored strategies for promoting equitable and sustainable development throughout the region. This workshop was a clear reminder of the urgency to address climate challenges while ensuring that economic development benefits everyone, especially the youth.
Another important aspect of the summit was the focus on youth policy. Participants engaged in lively debates about the need for supportive policies that can empower the next generation. These discussions aimed to encourage regional and international cooperation and to ensure that the voices of young people are heard and integrated into the decision-making process.
Delegates like Daudh Ahmed Zilal found the sessions particularly inspiring. Zilal noted, “I networked with representatives from National Youth Councils across the region, shared challenges, and learned about their innovative approaches to problem-solving, which was both inspiring and motivating. It has encouraged me to work even harder, not just at a national level, but also on regional and international fronts, to address the common issues our youth face.” His experience underscored the summit’s role as a catalyst for personal and collective growth.
A masterclass on best practices in youth work further enriched the summit experience. Led by Layne Robinson, the Head of Social Policy Development at the Commonwealth Secretariat, the session highlighted innovative engagement strategies for strengthening youth participation in governance and development. Robinson remarked, “Youth work is a fundamental pillar of sustainable development and social progress. We are committed to engaging and empowering young people in the Asia region, where a significant proportion of the Commonwealth’s youth reside. We hope these events energize them to confront the serious challenges ahead if we are to drive meaningful change and transform the future for young people across the 56 member states.”
The summit concluded with a vibrant cultural showcase. Pakistan’s rich heritage was celebrated through music, dance, and various cultural displays organized by the Pakistan National Council of Arts. Events like the Gandhara Cultural Festival, the One Drum Musical Unity performance, and the Harfun Painting activity brought participants together, reinforcing the importance of cultural exchange and unity in fostering regional solidarity.
