International Youth Day 2025 Celebrated in Karachi with a Focus on Youth Empowerment and Sustainable Development
Karachi witnessed a vibrant celebration of International Youth Day on 12 August 2025, bringing together community leaders, human rights advocates, journalists, and young volunteers to promote education, empowerment, and positive change. The event was hosted by the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) of the Archdiocese of Karachi and carried this year’s United Nations theme, Local Youth Actions for the Sustainable Development Goals and Beyond.
Prominent figures attending included Member of the Provincial Assembly Mahesh Kumar Hasija, journalist and human rights activist Herschele Christopher, founder of The Writer News, and Abdul Rab, volunteer for The Writer News. The program was led by Rev Fr Shahzad Arshad, Director of the CCJP, with coordination by Kashif Javed Anthony.
In his address, Fr Shahzad encouraged young people to take an active role in building a fair and inclusive society. He emphasized the importance of empowerment, education, constructive dialogue, and policy advocacy as tools for fostering human rights, religious tolerance, and responsible citizenship. The event featured a symbolic activity where participants placed colorful handprints to pledge their commitment to peace, development, and unity.
Speaking to The Writer News, Herschele Christopher praised the organizers for creating what he described as a meaningful platform for learning, motivation, and unity. He extended his gratitude to Fr Shahzad Arshad and Kashif Javed Anthony for their leadership in providing an opportunity for youth to come together and share ideas for positive change.
Herschele also addressed the importance of parental support in shaping the future of young people. He noted that while many youths are eager to explore modern fields such as artificial intelligence, marketing, and development, some parents discourage them without proper understanding. He urged parents to give their children the freedom to choose their career paths without fear, allowing them to work with dedication and confidence. He further encouraged young people to pursue higher education alongside their professional ambitions, sharing his own example of continuing his studies at the age of 18 while managing multiple responsibilities.
Abdul Rab, representing The Writer News as a volunteer, actively assisted in the coordination of the event, contributing to its smooth execution.
The celebration concluded with a collective commitment from all participants to work towards achieving sustainable development goals, promoting tolerance, and advancing equality within the community.
