Matei Lostun

Matei Lostun (17) grew up in Romania and saw how geography, access to information and adult decision-making could shape children’s opportunities. In rural communities, he noticed that many children were left out of decisions affecting their lives and had limited knowledge of their rights.

He founded Extraordinary Youth, a youth-led organisation focused on children’s rights, civic education, democracy and climate justice, with a focus on rural and underserved communities. Through child-friendly workshops and community dialogues, Matei helps children understand their rights and confidently express their views.

He also brings local perspectives to national and European conversations. As a member of UN Romania’s Children’s Board and a European Climate Pact Ambassador, he advocates for meaningful child participation and highlights climate change as a children’s rights issue.

His workshops have helped children better understand their rights, express their opinions and engage in their schools and communities. Through Extraordinary Youth, UN Romania and the European Climate Pact, his work also reaches wider audiences online, bringing children’s voices into public conversations.