UNICEF YuWaah and SAP launch Yutopia to promote youth leadership

UNICEF YuWaah and SAP have launched Yutopia, an initiative aimed at creating inclusive systems that place young people at the center of decision-making across public, private, and civil society sectors in India.

With over 350 million youth in the country, Yutopia seeks to engage young people as equal partners in national development rather than just beneficiaries or employees.

The launch event saw participation from government officials, including the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MoYAS), private sector leaders, civil society organizations, and young changemakers.

Yutopia aims to develop pathways and frameworks that help organizations collaborate across sectors, build capacity for meaningful youth engagement, and use human-centered design approaches to promote youth leadership and involvement.

“The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is committed to empowering young people as key partners in India’s development. Through initiatives like the National Service Scheme and Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan, we engage youth in leadership, service, and nation-building,” said Dr Sarah Jayal Swakmie, Director, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

“We continue to strengthen systems that ensure young people are heard, included, and involved in shaping programs and policies. We congratulate YuWaah on this initiative that is in alignment with our commitment,” added Swakmie.

“By working with diverse stakeholders, we aim to embed youth leadership across institutions and create opportunities for young people to drive national progress,” Swakmie continued.

Arjan De Wagt, Deputy Representative, UNICEF India, said, “At UNICEF, we believe every child and young person has the right to be heard and to participate meaningfully in decisions that impact their lives. We are committed to strengthening systems that support their development, protection, and engagement at every stage.”

“In India, where the youth population is significant, YuWaah works with young people to co-create pathways and ensure their voices inform every stage of our programs. Yutopia is a timely effort to position young people as equal stakeholders in shaping inclusive, youth-responsive organizations, reflecting our commitment to work for youth and with youth,” he added.

Sindhu Gangadharan, Managing Director, SAP Labs India, said, “At SAP, we firmly believe that young people must be at the heart of how organizations think, lead, and grow. Our global corporate social responsibility initiatives are dedicated to equipping youth with the skills, mentorship, and leadership opportunities they need to thrive.”

“With Yutopia, in partnership with UNICEF YuWaah, we are deepening this commitment, creating systems where young people are not just participants but active co-creators influencing decisions and shaping the workplaces of the future,” Gangadharan added.

Pooja Mahaldar, Young People's Action Team Member, UNICEF YuWaah, added, “When young professionals are given the space to make decisions, to learn, and even to grow from their mistakes, they bring fresh energy, creativity, and new perspectives to an organization. This not only helps them build confidence and leadership skills but also enables the organization to benefit from innovative ideas and approaches. All we need is the right support and the freedom to explore, experiment, and contribute meaningfully.”

Yutopia is part of the larger Generation Unlimited movement, launched globally by the UN Secretary-General in 2018 to support young people aged 10-24 through expanded learning, skill development, employment, and engagement opportunities. The India chapter, YuWaah, was launched in November 2019.