One early morning in Washington D.C., eight young advocates arrived at the U.S. Capitol as part of the Global Campaign for Education-US's 2025 Youth Advocacy Day. Representing states from Texas to Virginia, the advocates brought data, personal stories, and policy recommendations to advance global education equity, a cause that impacts America's security, prosperity, and international standing.
Worldwide, 272 million children remain out of school, while conflicts and crises continue to disrupt educational access for millions more. The advocates came to Congress prepared with evidence showing that doubling secondary education completion rates can reduce conflict risk by 50% and decrease political violence by 48%, statistics that make international education a national security priority.
"Being selected affirmed my identity as an advocate, or, as I call it, a protector of human joy," reflected Lara (17), from Texas. "Having someone tell me, 'We're choosing YOU to speak on behalf of children globally'? Now, that's a challenge. It's one I am still struggling to believe I got but one I am honored to have taken on."
The advocates met with congressional offices from across the political spectrum sharing research on education outcomes, constituent stories about families struggling with learning disabilities, and appeals for sustained funding of international basic education programs.
An unexpected encounter with Representative Lois Frankel (D-FL) in the hallways of the Capitol validated their approach. The Congresswoman's genuine interest in their advocacy goals demonstrated that informed youth voices carry weight in policy discussions. Another group observed a live markup session, with a student later noting that watching Representatives debate pressing issues reinforced that "the fight is still going on, and it is not worth it to lose hope."
"I learned that staffers are genuinely interested in hearing from constituents and often know more about the issues than you'd expect," observed Imaani (16), from Virginia. "More people need to know that these meetings actually matter and that representatives want to hear from young people who are informed about the issues."
The program achieved 100% success across key metrics: every participant reported increased confidence as advocates, expressed intention to engage more deeply in advocacy work, felt well-prepared by training, and planned to engage others in education advocacy.
Helena (15), from California, captured the essence of effective constituent engagement: "I learned that I am a constituent and that means my voice is as important and powerful and needed as any adults' voice without question! Young people can make change right now in the halls of justice."
Ahaana (14), from Virginia highlighted a critical insight about political participation: "Before this experience, reaching out to my Representatives and Senators felt like a distant dream that only high profile individuals could accomplish... They are legally required to listen to you, so take advantage of that!"
READY FOR ACTION
Weeks later, the eight advocates reconvened virtually, and it was evident they had transformed from participants into organizers. Helena outlined plans for partnering with national education organizations. Lara detailed her strategy to build a social media platform amplifying youth voices on education policy. Ahaana developed plans to organize events at her school and engage with local school boards.
"I plan to use this experience to continue advocacy in my community by promoting advocacy within schools in my area," Ahaana explained. "The younger generation is the biggest source of hope for the government, so it is important that they understand the impact they can make."
The multiplication effect of their experience is just beginning. Each advocate is currently organizing advocacy events, contacting local representatives, or sharing with peers that informed youth voices can drive policy change. What started as eight advocates will expand exponentially as each participant becomes a force multiplier for the movement.
The GCE-US Youth Engagement program demonstrated that when young people receive proper training and opportunities for democratic engagement, they don't just participate but lead. These eight advocates prove that age is no barrier to effective policy advocacy when combined with preparation, evidence-based arguments, and strategic engagement.
Their success reinforces a fundamental truth: supporting youth advocacy for global education equity is an investment in America's future leadership and security. As these young advocates organize in their communities, they build the next generation of informed citizens who understand that education access worldwide impacts American prosperity and peace.
The program's outcomes validate the importance of sustained investment in both international education programs and youth civic engagement. When young Americans understand how global education equity enhances national security and economic prosperity, they become powerful advocates for policies that make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous for generations to come.
Come see the powerful community projects youth are working on. RSVP to grector@gce-us.org to attend their final virtual presentations on November 8 at 12:00 PM EST.