Participants gathered at the Health Services Academy Islamabad for focused dialogue on youth leadership, health, gender equality and climate resilience during the 6th Interactive Youth Forum. The event aimed to translate discussion into practical action for policymaking, social justice and inclusive governance.
The forum was organized by Interactive Youth Forum (IYF) in collaboration with ISYD, with support from UNFPA, the Prime Minister Youth Program and other partner organisations. The opening session included registration, a review of past forum highlights and tributes to partner organisations and volunteers. The inaugural address was delivered by Nayab Ali, Gender and Inclusion Advisor at ISYD, while Syeda Amna Batool stressed the essential role of youth in transparent governance and policymaking.
The keynote address by Abia Akram, CEO of the National Forum of Women with Disabilities, emphasised inclusive leadership, stronger youth participation and continued advocacy at national and global levels. Her remarks set a tone of accessibility and intersectional representation for the day.
An intergenerational dialogue brought together voices from diverse fields, including Syed Moeez Kakakhel, Ayesha Mughal, Rohi Maqbool, Prof. Dr. Umairah and Hafiz Muhammad Talha. Panelists reflected on youth leadership, intergenerational harmony, policy dialogue and social responsibility in Pakistan’s evolving civic space.
The main panel, chaired by Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor of the Health Services Academy, featured experts such as Zahra Jabeen (Program Analyst, UNFPA), Suman Ahsan (Portfolio Manager), Maya Zaman (Data Analyst, UNODC), Zahra Sohail (National Communication Officer, UNESCO), Fatima Jafar (Senior Program Manager) and Professor Dr. Samina. Moderated by Amna Khan, the panel explored health and mental health priorities, sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, climate justice and feminist just energy within the broader agenda of social change.
Participants engaged through audience Q&A, video messages from specialists, stand-up comedy and other interactive segments. Two-hour breakout consultations focused on youth leadership, mental health, SRHR, women’s empowerment, evidence-based policymaking and amplifying youth voice. Group recommendations from these sessions were consolidated into a youth-led call to action to inform future advocacy and policy engagement.
The forum concluded with special guest remarks, presentation of certificates and mementos, and commitments from speakers to strengthen youth participation in policymaking and social development. The programme closed on a communal note with a group photo and a music concert underscoring the energy and resolve of young advocates for a sustainable future.
