On September 17th, we hosted the first webinar in our 9th virtual World Forum Series on “Global Challenges – Local Solutions”. The first webinar focused on Youth Engagement in a Digitalising World. Our speakers, representing our Youth Network as well as our member organisations closely working with youth, shed light on their activities for youth and provided tips on how to use the growing digital world in prevention efforts and youth engagement.

Speakers:

Mr Hariharan: Representing SANA, Singapore, he presented the background of the organisation and their mission while providing an overview of the current drug-use patterns in Singapore, He then elaborated on the youth prevention and empowerment framework SANA works with. The framework intends to protect youth from drug abuse through key initiatives, including school drug awareness talk/campaign, SANA Badge Scheme, and Youth empowerment programmes. Each programme got elaborated, its activities showcased, and the outcomes of the efforts. He also highlighted on how the programmes support youth/students in coordinating on media platforms, understand the implication of drug abuse, and understand the psychodynamics that could lead to drug abuse.

Valentina Soares: Representing Jorge Jaber Clinic, she presented mental health and suicide issues – especially in the slums in South America. Based on the social health problems, the team decided to work in one of the largest slums in South America to conduct suicide prevention activities that is thoughtful, culturally sensitive, and involved a range of strategies while deconstructing stigmas. She elaborated on the method of the project, including a study on the level of knowledge regarding relevant information about suicide, the production of a film, and distribution of shirts to transform the participants in multiplier references. The outcomes shared that there was an increase of 20% increase in knowledge on suicide.

Kina Gitonga: She highlighted the need to foster an inclusive digital culture in which we can empower the next generation to lead us into a more connected, innovative, and equitable future. She provided examples on issues that can be solved digitally, including: peer support, networking, digital literacy, tech skills, social justice and equality, health awareness and support, etc. Herself, she actively works in engaging youth online through social media platforms and virtual workshops, facilitating discussions, and providing resources that empower young people to navigate the digital landscape responsibility. She stated that the engagement not only promotes digital literacy but also encourages youth to use technology for personal growth and mental health awareness. She elaborated on Digital Education and its purpose to build young people’s self-esteem and self-confidence as well as the values of youth work.

Amina Auta Yusuf: She dove into tips on how to engage with persons facing substance abuse, including empathy, understanding, and a non-judgemental approach. The tips ranged from listening actively, showing empathy, building trust, avoiding stigma, to respecting boundaries, focusing on supporting the recovery pathway, and offer alternatives, etc.

We were also joined by Jo Baxter, who presented the youth prevention influencers project by the Rotary Action Group and on why youth are important influencers. They can share the relatability, social validation, authenticity, and use shared platforms for positive peer pressure/support.