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My experience as a panelist at the Forum Against Racism and Discrimination

In December 2024, I had the privilege of serving as a panelist at the fourth edition of UNESCO’s Global Forum Against Racism and Discrimination, where I shared insights on disability inclusion in youth advocacy efforts, particularly in climate resilience and sustainable development. As part of Breakout Session 8, I joined discussions on advancing disability inclusion through an intersectional lens, exploring strategies to enhance accessibility, representation, and inclusive policies.

In my role as a member of the UN Youth Advisory Group for Barbados and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), I emphasized the importance of ensuring that youth with disabilities are not only part of the conversation but also empowered to actively shape the solutions that impact their lives.

My role on the Panel

During the panel, I underscored the critical role of inclusive leadership and representation in driving meaningful change. I also emphasized the need for youth advocacy groups to move beyond 'tokenism' and embrace persons with disabilities as equal stakeholders in climate action initiatives. The discussion highlighted the importance of accessible communication tools—such as sign language, closed captions, and universal design—to ensure that every voice is heard and valued. 

Along these lines, I advocated for a co-creation approach, where youth with disabilities actively contribute to policy decisions rather than being passive beneficiaries of change.

In addition to climate action, I spoke about the strategies youth groups are implementing to truly inclusively influence policy and financial decision-making. 

Representation emerged as a key strategy—placing youth with disabilities in leadership roles ensures that policies are informed by lived experiences, fostering authenticity and relevance. I also highlighted the power of collaborating with NGOs, governments, and international organizations, as well as leveraging storytelling and data-driven insights to build compelling advocacy campaigns.

What I learned and what I loved

The forum was an eye-opening experience, reinforcing the importance of intersectionality in advocacy efforts. Listening to fellow panelists from diverse backgrounds, I gained valuable perspectives on how discrimination manifests across different identities and sectors. I was particularly inspired by the innovative ways youth-led initiatives are bridging gaps in accessibility and inclusion—whether through grassroots mobilization, digital advocacy, or policy engagement.

One of the aspects I appreciated most was the collaborative atmosphere of the event. It was empowering to see young leaders from various regions working together toward a shared vision of inclusivity. The forum provided a platform to discuss challenges and fostered a solutions-oriented approach that encouraged actionable steps to address systemic barriers.

Call to action: Building a truly inclusive future

As we move forward, it’s clear that addressing discrimination—whether based on race, disability, or other factors—requires a collective commitment to inclusion. Here’s how we can all contribute:

1. Prioritize inclusive leadership: Empower individuals from marginalized communities, including those with disabilities, to participate in discussions and lead in driving change.
2. Make accessibility a core value: Accessibility should be non-negotiable in advocacy campaigns, workplace policies, and public spaces.
3. Amplify stories and data: Personal narratives and evidence-based research create powerful advocacy tools that drive meaningful change.
4. Advocate for policy reform: Engage with policymakers to push for legislation that enforces inclusivity in all sectors, from climate action to education and employment.
5. Foster collaboration: Partnerships with organizations, governments, and communities can amplify the impact of advocacy efforts and create long-lasting change.

The forum reinforced my belief that youth with disabilities are not just advocates—we are leaders, innovators, and changemakers. By embracing inclusion and equity, we can create a future where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.

I am deeply grateful to UNESCO for the opportunity to participate in this vital conversation and for its continued commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue and action against racism and discrimination. UNESCO’s leadership in championing equity, accessibility, and youth engagement is shaping a more just and inclusive world, and I am honored to have been part of this important initiative.