Building connections, shaping change: Reflections on the Lumos Global Youth Forum

22.09.2026

Pictured: Members of the Global Youth Advisory Board from Colombia, Moldova and Ukraine gathered together in London.

In August, young people from our Global Youth Advisory Board came together in London for the first Lumos Global Youth Forum in over five years, creating a unique opportunity to build connections, share experiences and help inform efforts to improve care and protection systems around the world.

The week-long forum brought together young people aged 11 to 22 from across our programme countries (Colombia, Kenya, Moldova and Ukraine), all of whom have lived experience of care and protection systems. Through discussion, collaboration and friendship, they strengthened a global network of young people united by a shared ambition: to improve the lives of children and young people.

At Lumos, we work alongside children and young people with lived experience to transform care and protection systems worldwide. Their insight helps us make better decisions, understand the realities they face, and develop programmes and advocacy that more accurately reflect their needs. Grounded in their right to be heard, we believe lived experience should not simply inform our work, it should help lead it.

Pictured: Members of the Global Youth Advisory Board from Kenya participated in feedback activities remotely.

For the young people at the forum, the week provided a rare opportunity to meet peers from different countries and cultures, exchange perspectives and build lasting friendships. While their individual journeys were often very different, they found common ground in their aspirations, resilience and commitment to creating positive change, strengthening their sense of belonging to a global community.

During the week, participants contributed to discussions on a new youth-focused grants scheme and explored findings from a recent survey on the connection between care and violence against children. Together, they shared ideas, provided feedback and helped shape future initiatives. They also took part in interviews and filming, ensuring their experiences and insights can be shared more widely. Time spent with members of the Lumos leadership team offered valuable insight into the people and processes behind our programmes and advocacy work.

Alongside the formal programme, the young people had opportunities to explore London. From visiting Tower Bridge and travelling across the city by boat, train and double-decker bus to stepping into the world of magic at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, the week was filled with memorable experiences and new discoveries.

Pictured: Members of the Lumos Global Youth Advisory Board at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter.

Most importantly, the week demonstrated the power of bringing young people together. When young people are given the space to connect, share their perspectives and influence decisions, they become powerful agents of change. The Global Youth Advisory Board is helping to ensure their voices are not only heard but are helping to shape a better future for children and young people around the world.

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