The NATO Youth Summit was an incredible opportunity to engage with young leaders and officials from across the alliance. We discussed key issues such as diversity, gender equality, disinformation, and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. I had the chance to connect with my fellow youth counterparts, exchanging ideas on how to strengthen relationships between our countries.

One of the highlights was my participation in a panel discussion on everyday diplomacy and how it influences our daily lives. I shared my personal journey as a circus performer and dancer, explaining how these experiences shaped me into a better youth advocate. In the artistic world, we work alongside people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, requiring strong collaboration and conflict-resolution skills. Learning how to build relationships and navigate disagreements with my circus colleagues has greatly influenced my approach to youth activism.

At youth summits, I not only focus on policy discussions but also emphasize the importance of building relationships with fellow young leaders. When youth feel comfortable and connected, they are more open to collaborating on solutions. This approach fosters a more effective and productive dialogue.

Regarding diversity, I highlighted the importance of working in multicultural environments. Many conflicts arise from misunderstandings of values and cultures—therefore, fostering mutual understanding can help prevent disputes. As youth leaders, we must continue advocating for inclusive and diverse communities to promote global peace and cooperation.

On women’s empowerment, I stressed the importance of increasing female representation in decision-making spaces. More women at the table bring a diversity of perspectives, driving innovative policy recommendations. Women often bring a unique balance of passion and resilience, which enriches the decision-making process. Moreover, many men may not fully understand the challenges women face. By ensuring women can speak for themselves, we create policies that truly address their needs.

Diversity in summits and policymaking leads to more innovative and creative solutions. By embracing different perspectives, we take meaningful steps toward building a better, more inclusive world.