In the space of social development, some stories inspire us: the experiences that help us become better people, the relationships that are necessary and purposeful, the feeling of belongingness, the happiness of every small achievement, the anxiety of not being able to do a lot, the weight of stories that carry grief, loss, loneliness and hopelessness. And along with all this, our own lived realities.
I have often craved a space where I could open up my anxieties and vulnerabilities. Where I can share about the silent, unnoticed struggles of listening to overwhelming stories, connecting with them, and realising that injustice has not just engulfed me but is brutally affecting many vulnerable people and communities. The weight is sometimes so heavy that it affects my overall well-being. I felt the need for space for many years. The space where I should feel safe enough not to worry about judgments, privacy, loss of resources, opportunities, and connections.
I am the person who needs time to trust and share stories that carry my identity, my own perspectives, my lived realities and vulnerabilities and the stories of the communities I live and work with. Last year, when a friend asked me, "What do you need”? I replied, “ a space to relax, rejuvenate and refresh”. It was a short conversation, and we talked about the experience of working in complex geographies on complex issues. He introduced me to the Youth Climate Convening. I was not sure if it was going to be the same space I crave, but I had decided to be a part with hope.
The first day at YCC 2026 was a trust-building day for me. I shared about my work as I do it anywhere. I was hesitant to share the untold stories and experiences at first. During the day, I listened to other friends at the convening. Their struggles felt familiar. At informal gatherings during the convening, people met with me with a smile; conversations organically started while everyone maintained each other's boundaries. I started trusting and opening up.
People also listened to me with pure intentions. Not asking harsh or uncomfortable questions, but gave me enough space to share whatever I wanted. No cross-questioning. I genuinely felt included, and it led me to express my real self without any restrictions and fear stopping me from doing or saying anything I wanted.
I was inspired by the other young friends around me. Their stories had the power to influence me to connect and become an ally. I also realised that it is not just me who has unique challenges; we all face challenges because of our different contextual realities. While I was looking for a safe space, others were also seeking it. I learnt that sometimes I have to become that space to get the space.
Along with the space, I also got allies for future space needs. I learnt to be vulnerable, bold, and myself.
Within the group, we had many similar challenges and needs and different capacities and resources. With the process, we started building solidarity beyond resource sharing. We discussed the need to listen to each other, know more about each other and provide and seek care.
We were clear that we are resisting a single force of different forms. Gender inequality, climate crisis, human rights violations, unemployment, youth issues are not distant but closely related.
Even though we were working on different issues in different contexts, we all had a similar vision of creating a just society where everyone (both human and non-human bodies), irrespective of their identities, would live a better life and where natural bodies are considered as important as living bodies.
During the convening, we shared stories, grief, meals, achievements, and our plans. One new shared objective emerged: to nurture this space with love, care, resources and solidarity.
It was so amazing to live in a space, having young energies, dreams, hopes, smiles, love and care around. I am hopeful that YCC will continue to hold such spaces for me and other young people in need.
Read the YCC 2026 report here: Read Here