International Youth Day is all about recognising the vital role young people play in shaping a better, fairer future. This year’s theme: Local Youth Actions for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Beyond – puts a spotlight on the power of youth to turn big global ideas into real, local change.*
With over half the world’s population under thirty and youth set to make up the majority of the workforce by 2050, there’s no doubt: young people are the future. They bring fresh ideas, energy and strong community connections – all key to making progress on everything from climate action to gender equality.
But to build this better future, young people need the basics. And that starts with something as simple – and essential – as clean water.
Why Clean Water Matters for Youth
It might not sound revolutionary, but access to a safe, reliable water source can transform young lives, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Health & Well-being: Clean water means fewer diseases and better overall health, so young people can grow, learn and thrive.
Time for Education: In many communities, young people (especially girls) spend hours every day fetching water. A local water source gives them that time back – time they can spend in school, building their future.
Growing Futures: Access to water lets youth tend to crops or small gardens. These can be sold or used to feed their families, helping them develop trade skills and even start small businesses.
Skills for Life: Whether it’s farming, selling produce, or managing water systems, these experiences help young people gain practical, sustainable skills that benefit their families and wider communities.
Local Action, Global Impact
When we invest in basic needs like water, we’re not just meeting today’s challenges – we’re empowering tomorrow’s leaders. Youth aren’t just the face of the future; they’re the hands shaping it now.
It may seem that something as simple as installing a water cooler has little connection to empowering young people – but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
This International Youth Day let’s remember tremendous change often starts with something small: like a tap that works, a school that’s accessible, or a child who no longer must walk miles for water.
These are just a few of the reasons that, here at AquAid, we continue to support vital work that brings clean, safe drinking water to communities where it’s most needed. By partnering with dedicated charities and helping fund sustainable water projects, the impact goes well beyond the workplace – helping to create the foundations for healthier, more resilient futures.
Because when water flows, so does opportunity.
