Intergenerational Talanoa Dialogue on young people’s Leadership in Decision Making

“Talanoa” means to talk and converse, a traditional method of solving differences in an inclusive, respectful way in the Pacific.

Inspired by the 2017 Talanoa Dialogue, this session brings together youth activists and advocates, sat at the same table as government, civil society, NGO, business, academic and religious leaders.

Through storytelling and deep listening, participants will connect the experiences of youth engaging in today’s decision-making with the struggles of their ancestors, the perspectives of their peers across sectors and governments, and a vision of a world in which youth participation is celebrated and recognised.

The session will serve as an intercultural and intergenerational human touchpoint to collectively reflect on the journey of youth leadership so far, to identify the path we hope to take.

Structured as World Café, participants will sit at roundtables of mixed backgrounds to reduce hierarchy and encourage open exchange. The dialogue will begin with an opening inviting the guest speakers and audience to take place in rotating table group discussions focusing three key questions: « Where are we now in relation to youth leadership? Where do we want to go? How do we get there? » guided by a young facilitator.