Global Shapers Impact Report 2025

Topics of youth collective action TABLE 3 Topics Definition Reskilling for the futureYoung people are increasing access to education, skills and jobs, and promoting innovation, technology and entrepreneurship. Protecting the planetYoung people are reducing emissions, preserving nature, promoting circular innovation and advancing a waste-free world. Creating inclusive societiesYoung people are delivering projects to advance equity and social justice, while empowering young women and girls everywhere. Improving health and well-beingYoung people are addressing anxiety and achieving better health outcomes and well-being for young people and vulnerable groups. Advancing civic engagementYoung people are strengthening democracy by engaging voters, informing policy and inspiring young people to run for local office. Delivering basic needsYoung people are mobilizing humanitarian responses, responding to local crises and natural disasters, and fighting extreme poverty. Young people’s efforts have a profound impact on a wide range of stakeholders (see Table 4), particularly underrepresented groups such as women, minorities, LGBTQIA+ communities, migrants and refugees. Among the 80,000 people directly supported by young people this year, 36% were from vulnerable groups. Notably, 25% of projects specifically targeted young people, creating spaces where young people can lead, support one another and create change together. These findings highlight the unique potential of youth-led movements to break down barriers, promote inclusion and drive lasting societal transformation. Stakeholders reached through youth collective action TABLE 4 Stakeholders Definition Vulnerable groups Young people are uplifting women and girls, migrants and refugees, racial minorities, LGBTQIA+ youth and people with disabilities, ensuring equal access to opportunities and resources. Young people Young people are empowering themselves and their peers, underscoring that youth-led social change is often driven by young people, for young people. Young people are defined as aged 18 to 30. Schools and universitiesYoung people are most connected to the places where they live, work and study. They are driving change at their schools and universities, enriching learning and building inclusive campuses. Jobseekers and unemployed peopleYoung people are committed to supporting jobseekers and unemployed groups, offering opportunities for skills development, training and pathways to meaningful, long-term employment. Families and householdsYoung people are addressing the essential needs of families and households, providing access to clean water, nutritious meals, healthcare and learning materials to ensure healthy homes for all. Voters and civic organizationsYoung people are stepping up to strengthen civic engagement, supporting elections, reaching voters and collaborating with organizations that uphold inclusive democratic values. Entrepreneurs and start-upsYoung people are driving innovation by supporting start-ups and social enterprises that reflect their vision for a more just economic system, nurturing business models with social impact at their core. Small- and medium- sized enterprisesYoung people are scaling the development of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly locally-run, minority-owned and women-led businesses, to foster inclusive growth. Large businesses and enterprisesYoung people are advancing corporate initiatives that embrace diversity, transparency, sustainability and accountability in their operations and supply chains to meet the demands of consumers. Global Shapers Impact Report 19