UNICEF Pakistan highlighted Zunaira Qayyum as an inspiring voice for young people, stressing that children must be included in decisions that shape their future. As a youth advocate she used a prominent forum to press leaders to move beyond promises and deliver measurable outcomes.
The event brought together high-level figures including the Queen of Sweden Silvia, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell, and UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Kitty van der Heijden. Zunaira stood out as the only adolescent speaker, representing the concerns of young people on climate, education and health.
“No decision about us should be made without us.” That call underlined her demand for meaningful child participation and for leaders to turn commitments into concrete policies. Zunaira urged action on climate resilience, equitable education and stronger health support, framing these priorities as interconnected and essential for the next generation.
Her remarks as a youth advocate carry particular weight for Pakistani audiences and policymakers, highlighting the need to elevate adolescent voices in national planning. By speaking directly to global and local leaders, Zunaira modelled how young people can shape conversations on climate and girls empowerment at the highest levels.
