Girls face barriers every day — but they’re not waiting for change, they’re leading it. We support young people, domestically and internationally, as they lead change in their communities. We are investing in the next generation of young changemakers and advocates. Because young people are not just the future – they are the leaders of today.
We believe young people are central to achieving lasting social change. Young people are not just beneficiaries. They’re leaders, experts and partners in shaping the solutions for a better world.
The Youth Advisory Board is a body of young people ages 14-22 from across the U.S. They ensure youth voices, perspectives and needs are represented authentically. The Youth Advisory Board are ambassadors of Plan’s global mission, advancing diverse perspectives and ensuring the agency of youth in building a better world.
Plan International’s Youth Leadership Academy gives young people the tools they need to create the change they want. This is a year-long social impact fellowship by youth, for youth, hosted by the Youth Advisory Board. Throughout the fellowship, each participant will ideate, design and implement their own local leadership project.
Aprille survived a super typhoon at 13. Today she is a teacher and climate advocate helping her community prepare for the next storm. Her story shows why girls’ education is the foundation of women’s leadership — and why International Women’s Day begins with girls.
From rural Ecuador to a career in microbiology, Valeria’s journey shows what becomes possible when girls have the support to stay in school and pursue science.
A Youth Advisory Board member reflects on lessons from Bangladesh and Jordan, sharing how women’s leadership, education and economic access shape lasting change across communities.
Online gender-based violence is rising fast, undermining girls’ safety, confidence and leadership. From sextortion to AI image abuse, digital spaces are exposing girls to harms that policies and platforms haven’t caught up with — and the solutions must center what girls say they need.
Plan International USA’s 2025 Youth Leadership Academy gave young leaders the tools, mentorship and safe space to grow as advocates. In Washington, D.C., they met with Senate staffers on the TAKE IT DOWN Act, building confidence that their voices matter in shaping policy.
Back-to-school means new opportunities — like leading change. Meet Byronie and her mom, Sara, and see how Plan’s Youth Advisory Board builds confident leaders.
When Rachidatou fled Burkina Faso, she carried more than fear. She carried a dream. Now, thanks to inclusive education in Togo, she’s pursuing that dream of becoming a doctor. Her story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when every student is seen, supported and included.
Play is never just play. It’s how children process trauma, build resilience and connect with others. From conflict zones to classrooms, Plan is prioritizing play.
Soha found her voice through Plan’s Youth Leadership Academy, which taught her how to lead, organize and create change. Her story is a testament to the power of investing in young leaders. You can apply today!
Fatima Hassouna was a hugely talented Palestinian photographer and a youth advocate for Plan International who endured 18 months of living through the conflict destroying
