DOHA: The Education Above All (EAA) Foundation's Reach Out to Asia (ROTA) programme has concluded its 15th annual EMPOWER Youth Conference. The two-day conference took place in the Equestrian Club Halls in Al Rayyan.
This year's conference theme 'The Role of Youth in Times of War and Conflict' has already sparked a significant dialogue among over 200 participating Qatar-based youth and abroad, and the opening ceremony set a compelling tone for a series of engagements designed to harness the energy and potential of young leaders in addressing global conflicts.
The opening ceremony started with a dialogue about the dire situation in Gaza. Another highlight was the panel discussion titled 'Relief Efforts in Perspective: Qatar's Role in Regional Conflicts' featuring a lineup of experts and activists from Qatar and other countries. The conference also included powerful messages from conflict zones such as Palestine and Sudan, delivered through a short film titled 'The Power of Youth in Times of War and Conflict'.
The speakers for EMPOWER 2024 were both diverse and dynamic, carefully selected to engage and inspire the youth audience with their unique perspectives on conflict and peacebuilding.
Participants have engaged in a series of workshops, panel discussions, and interactive sessions. These activities aimed to develop practical advocacy skills and insights. The discussions were culminated with crafting the EMPOWER 2024 Youth Declaration, which articulates youth's commitments to addressing global conflict challenges.
The EMPOWER 2024 Exhibition, a key component of the conference, is a collaborative effort that offers a vibrant showcase of creative expressions themed around 'The Role of Youth in Times of War and Conflict.' This curated collection included a variety of mediums thoughtfully created by young local artists.These artworks not only reflect the intense emotions and complex narratives associated with global conflicts but also serve as a powerful form of advocacy and awareness. The exhibition is a testament to the role of art in fostering dialogue and understanding, providing attendees with a deeper, more personal insight into the themes discussed at the conference.
EAA's Executive Director for Reach Out to Asia (ROTA), Abdullah Al Abdulla, said: "At EMPOWER 2024, we are dedicated to harnessing youth's vibrant energy and innovative spirit to address some of the most pressing global challenges. This conference is not just an event; it's a platform for young voices to shape their future and influence the global discourse on peace and conflict resolution. We believe that empowering our youth is investing in a brighter, more resilient future."
The success of the EMPOWER 2024 conference is greatly bolstered by its collaboration with esteemed strategic and implementing partners, each contributing their unique resources and expertise to the event's goals. Strategic partners include the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) -EAA strategic partner-, the Qatar Museums (EMPOWER 2024 Funder), which enriches the conference by integrating cultural and artistic insights into the dialogue, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, which plays a crucial role in promoting youth development and engagement in Qatar, and several United Nations agencies like UNICEF, UNESCO, UNHCR and ILO, providing international perspectives and support. EMPOWER 2024 is further enhanced by working alongside key implementing partners such as Doha Debates and the Doha Institute of Graduate Studies, who both bring unique perspectives, resources, and expertise to engaging youth in meaningful and impactful ways.
Started in 2009 with the initiative of Vice-Chairperson of Education Above All Foundation HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, EMPOWER is the first youth-led conference in Qatar to focus on equipping young people to take active roles in building their communities and having a voice on global issues. It is a chance for youth between ages 16 and 30 to take part in experiential learning and cross-cultural exchange of ideas and discover a sense of belonging to a common humanity, shared values, and responsibilities.
