Hundreds of young leaders convened at the Health Services Academy in Islamabad for the sixth edition of the Interactive Youth Forum, a platform that mobilised youth across Pakistan to engage in policy dialogue and practical action on leadership, health and climate resilience. The event, organised by Interactive Youth Forum and ISYD with support from UNFPA and the Prime Minister Youth Program, opened with registration and a session that reviewed past forums and acknowledged partner organisations and volunteers.
Nayab Ali, Gender and Inclusion Advisor at ISYD, delivered the inaugural address highlighting the need for inclusive participation, while Syeda Amna Batool emphasised the vital role of young people in transparent governance and social development. The keynote speech by Abia Akram, CEO of the National Forum of Women with Disabilities, urged inclusive leadership and stronger youth engagement in national and global advocacy.
An intergenerational dialogue brought together voices from diverse fields, including Syed Moeez Kakakhel, Ayesha Mughal, Rohi Maqbool, Professor Dr. Umairah and Hafiz Muhammad Talha, who reflected on youth leadership, intergenerational harmony and the responsibilities of policy actors. These exchanges reinforced the forum’s focus on bridging age groups to shape responsive policy.
The central panel, chaired by Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor of the Health Services Academy, addressed Youth and Adolescents at the Center, with panelists such as Zahra Jabeen from UNFPA, Suman Ahsan, Maya Zaman from UNODC, Zahra Sohail of UNESCO, Ms. Fatima Jafar and Professor Dr. Samina. Moderated by Amna Khan, the discussion explored health and mental health, sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, climate justice and pathways to social change.
Participants engaged through audience Q&A, recorded expert messages, lighthearted stand-up comedy and other interactive segments that kept the dialogue accessible. Two-hour breakout consultations tackled youth leadership, mental health, SRHR, women’s empowerment, evidence-based policymaking and amplifying youth voice. Each group presented recommendations that were consolidated into a youth-led call to action, intended to inform policymakers and partners.
Closing remarks reiterated commitments to strengthen youth participation in policymaking and social development, with acknowledgements, certificates and mementos presented to contributors. The day concluded with a group photograph and a musical event, underscoring the forum’s blend of serious policy work and community building. The Interactive Youth Forum reaffirmed its role as a national space for young people to shape Pakistan’s policy agenda on leadership, health and climate resilience.
