"I think our society has not yet fully embraced the idea that women and men are equal. There is still an outdated belief that men are superior to women or vice versa. I want to help change this and promote the idea that we are all equal," says Misho Dvalishvili, 16, from Rustavi.

Along with his peers, Misho participated in a five-day training programme "Youth for Social Change," organized through a partnership between the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Georgia Country Office and the Network of Centers for Civic Engagement (NCCE). Since 2020, UNFPA has been implementing this initiative across various regions of Georgia, with the support from the European Union.

"I want people to understand that no one has the right to control another person based on gender. Everyone is free in our society… We all should be equal," Misho adds, emphasizing his commitment to addressing discriminatory norms and fostering critical thinking among his fellow citizens.

According to 2019 data, 18.5% of the population of Georgia consists of young adults, i.e., people aged 15-29. One of the key goals of the UNFPA is to support adolescents and youth who seek to drive social change in their community, challenge deep-rooted stereotypes, and actively engage in public life. The "Youth for Social Change" initiative serves this very purpose.

"I know people who still make distinctions between girls and boys. For instance, they tell girls to choose so-called 'girly' professions and boys to pick 'boyish' ones. Even in schools, girls are often expected to be orderly and calm, while boys are encouraged to be bold and take leadership roles. To change this, we need awareness, education, and an understanding that this mindset is outdated and should not persist," says Tamar Bolkvadze, 15, highlighting the importance of engaging all generations in discussions about equality.

Mariam Kristesiashvili, 16, shares a similar perspective, pointing out that many older individuals struggle to accept that younger generations may hold different views.

"By participating in this training, I aim to deepen my understanding of gender equality and advocacy. Just as important is making new friends, engaging in self-development, and building confidence," she explains.

The UNFPA initiative unites young people who believe in equality, challenge harmful social norms, and remain undeterred by obstacles on the path to change. With the support of UNFPA and NCCE, participants expand their knowledge, refine their skills, exchange ideas, and become proactive agents of change within their communities.

Ana Margalitadze, 15, stresses the need to equip young people with knowledge to counter stereotypes. She encourages her peers to stand up for their rights and to speak out if they witness discrimination or any form of violence, reassuring them that there are people who care about them.

Tekla Tvaliashvili, 16, also believes that youth engagement is key to creating positive change:

"I would tell my peers not to be afraid to raise their voices. We want to leave a better Georgia for future generations."

The UNFPA works with adolescents and youth in Georgia and around the world to create a future where every young person’s potential is fully realized through their direct involvement and empowerment.

Liaman Mamedova, a psychologist and one of the training facilitators, explains that the "Youth for Social Change" initiative seeks to make young people co-authors of the idea of gender equality.

"Unfortunately, many people still misunderstand the concept of gender equality. Some believe it only means empowering women or even oppressing men, but in reality, gender equality is based on a very simple principle: protecting human rights. The essence of gender equality is that we are all equal - that we can and should respect, understand, and accept one another. Most importantly, it’s about creating an environment where no one is oppressed," she says.

Liaman emphasizes that young people possess a quality that adults should learn from - curiosity:

"I believe that when a person is curious, asks questions, and remains open-minded, they naturally become active citizens, who seek to improve their communities and surroundings, making them better places through their engagement."

“Youth for Social Change” initiative is part of “Gender Equality in Georgia" programme, funded by the European Union (EU) and jointly implemented by UN Women and UNFPA.