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From the very first International Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) Summit in 2016, young leaders have been at the heart of this global movement, sparking new ways of thinking, challenging norms, and infusing creativity into every corner of SBCC.
At the 2022 Summit in Marrakech, youth took center stage through interactive sessions, skills-building workshops, art installations, and conversations that bridged generations. They showed the power of youth not just as participants, but as partners and innovators, proving that meaningful change happens when all voices are heard.
The 2026 Summit in Panama builds on that legacy, with even greater space for youth-driven ideas, leadership, and collaboration.
At each Summit, young people lead and participate in a dynamic mix of activities designed to inspire, connect, and build skills. Past highlights have included:
Youth and seasoned professionals came together for candid, cross-generational conversations about today’s most urgent issues.
Focused on practical skills like designing social media campaigns, using human-centered design, and creating messages that reach and resonate with specific audiences.
A dedicated space near the Exhibition Hall where young participants could connect with mentors, share ideas, and recharge.
Creative installations, like the Graffiti Wall and Photo Booth, where participants expressed what “connection” meant to them through art, writing, and photography.
On-the-go interviews and digital storytelling, led by Youth Champions who captured real-time reflections from attendees across the Summit.
These activities helped strengthen intergenerational exchange, highlight youth-led innovations, and demonstrate real, transferable approaches that organizations can use in their own work.
As we prepare for the 2026 Summit in Panama, we’ll continue building on this momentum, creating more opportunities for young leaders to share their experiences, learn from global peers, and shape the future of communication for change.
If you’re a young communicator, advocate, researcher, or creator, the SBCC Summit is your platform to be heard, connect deeply, and lead boldly.
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