Arnav Rai
The world doesn’t need to wait for children to grow up, it needs to grow by listening to them.
Arnav (17), is from India. Growing up in Kuwait, Arnav saw how challenges affecting children often received little attention in policymaking and governance. He noticed that young people had few opportunities to bring their experiences and ideas to decision-making platforms. At 14, he was appointed Kuwait’s UN Young Ambassador, giving him a platform to represent youth voices nationally and internationally.
Arnav speaks up on issues affecting children and young people, including the impact of conflict and polarisation. At the UN House in Kuwait, he spoke about how conflict can shape children’s lives and futures. He also addressed the NATO Istanbul Regional Centre, highlighting the harmful effects of exposing children to polarising ideas from a young age.
With strong support from his family, Arnav continues to use his voice to bring young people into meaningful dialogue and ensure their perspectives are heard where decisions about their futures are made.
Other nominees
Honia Raheen
Nominated by Feroza Raheen
Wilson Malala Helen Shei
Nominated by Malala Farm
Mujahid Ibrahim Bin Sadeque
Nominated by Suvasish Halder
Roberto R Cooper Jr
Nominated by John T. Munyeneh
Maloum Gloria Pamela
Nominated by Maloum Divina Stella
Kashfiya Jannat Kuhu
Nominated by Karima Ferdousi Keka
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