The International Youth Foundation (IYF) and Nokia announced the 2009 YouthActionNet Global Fellows. The winners are distinguished by their innovative local solutions to urgent global challenges.
Among the 20 Fellows are a 23-year-old in the United States who helps young female victims of sexual violence in Sri Lanka to heal from their past; and a 27-year-old in Palestine, who uses mobile phone technology to link unemployed youth to jobs.
Launched in 2001 by IYF and Nokia, YouthActionNet seeks to develop a new generation of socially-conscious global citizens who create positive change in their communities, their countries, and the world.
Each year, YouthActionNet selects 20 outstanding young leaders for its Global Fellowship program. Through the 12-month program, Fellows refine their leadership skills, participate in a weeklong retreat held in Washington, DC, and are recognized for their efforts at the YouthActionNet Global Awards Ceremony.
Kirsi Sormunen, Vice-President, Sustainability at Nokia, said, “Congratulations to each of this year?s Fellows for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to improving the lives of others. Through their example, each teaches us the importance of creativity, perseverance, teamwork, and taking action to tackle society?s most critical challenges.?