Evaluations of these projects challenge stereotypes that young people are disinterested or disengaged in social change processes. In fact, this research demonstrates that youth-led initiatives lay the foundation for a more sustainable, just and equitable world. Their work demonstrates that when young people are empowered, they not only improve their own futures but also build stronger and more resilient communities that benefit society as a whole. It is therefore critical that organizations, businesses and governments recognize young people as vital agents of change – valuing their insights, recognizing their expertise, amplifying their reach, and incorporating their voices into the policies and decision-making processes that impact their lives. Frequency and results TABLE 5 Category Frequency Percentage Strategies (projects can deploy multiple strategies) Awareness-raising 438 91.63% Direct action 419 87.66% Influencing power 128 26.78% Driving systems change 63 13.18% Total projects 478 Topics (projects can address multiple topics) Reskilling for the future 240 50.21% Protecting the planet 139 29.08% Creating inclusive societies 175 36.61% Advancing civic engagement 144 30.13% Improving health and well-being 99 20.71% Delivering basic needs 42 8.79% Total projects 478 Stakeholders Vulnerable groups 29,463 36.59% Women and girls 8,962 11.13% Minorities and racial groups 4,275 5.31% Migrants and refugees 3,784 4.70% Rural populations 3,446 4.28% People with disabilities 2,673 3.32% Informal workers 2,158 2.68% Indigenous communities 2,045 2.54% LGBTQIA+ individuals 1,135 1.41% Elderly populations 985 1.22% Young people 20,348 25.27% Schools and universities 11,394 14.15% Jobseekers and unemployed groups 6,683 8.30% Entrepreneurs and start-ups 2,898 3.60% Global Shapers Impact Report 20

Global Shapers Impact Report 2025