The current generation of youth are the largest in history and young people often comprise the majority in countries marked by armed conflict or unrest, therefore considering the needs and aspirations of youth in matters of peace and security is a demographic imperative.

Young people’s inclusion in the peace and security agenda and in society more broadly, is key to building and sustaining peace. The process of social inclusion for youth, including participation in decision-making as well as access to quality education, health care and basic services promotes their role as active contributors to society and affords young people with opportunities to reach their potential and achieve their goals. When youth are excluded from political, economic and social spheres and processes, it can be a risk factor for violence and conflict. Therefore, identifying and addressing the social exclusion of young people is a precondition for sustaining peace.

In his words, the project leader, Gideon Ekanem also stated, International Youth day, Uyo, creates an opportunity for young people in Akwa Ibom State to celebrate themselves and their activities as it affects the theme set aside by the UN for the year, It also creates an opportunity for more young people to volunteer, collaborate, engage, learn and inspire themselves. While we are creating more sustainable solutions that meet needs both for now and the future, we are also leveraging on this event to tell the world that there is a lot happening out here in Akwa Ibom.

The event will feature Music performances, Ideas Sharing session by startups on peace building, Networking, Dance, Panel Session and Stage Play.

The Ideas sharing session will have, Pst. Runcie Mike - Senior Pastor, The Evening Church, Euphymia Aniekpon - Creative Director, Fresh “n” Grinz, Uduak Inwang - Head Publicist, Akstrending, Idong Ekoi - Business Collaborator, Uduak Umoatan - Co-Founder Codekago interactive, Emmanuel Onuk – Founder Ibom Directory, Edikan Udom - Director of Marketing and Design OBUfaa Interior

Also, expected panelists include; Joyce Daniels, CEO, Talkademy, Uyo, Sam Enoh Akpan, General Manager, Inspiration Fm, Uyo and Sam Edoho, Senior Special Assistant to the governor on marketing and brand management, Bryce Edem and David Okpon, Managing Director, Goshen Greenland Limited. They will discuss on ways youths can become build peace in their various communities.

The command Stage play written and directed by Paul Okuk is entitled ‘Youth building Peace’. The play will be a narrative tale of Africa before and after colonization; the struggles to win the right cause the wrong way, and a resolution that portrays the New Africa. Violent protest is captured, and then, a peaceful resolution is reached. Emotion, suspense, and a mixture of music, dance and drama makes an informative, educating and entertaining piece of art.

The event is scheduled for August 11, 2017.

Time: Red Carpet kicks off by 2pm and main event by 3pm-6pm

Venue: Silverbird Cinemas, Ibom Tropicana, Uyo Akwa Ibom State

To attend kindly register online at www.iyduyo.com

For sponsorship call Aniekpon, +2347030459925, Utip, +348073168068 and Becky +2348037759359

Join and follow the conversation on Facebook, Twitter @iyduyo on Instagram @iyduyolive using the hashtag #IydUyo, #Youth4Peace #YouthDay.

The Event is powered by IYDUYOVOLUNTEERS and Organized by CHARACTER AND SUCCESS (UNIDO Partner Social Enterprise)