Half the world’s population is under the age of 25. Many of those youth create positive change and are a source of resiliency in their communities—combating poverty, crisis and confl ict, or contributing to emerging economies. Still, many other young people yearn to be part of positive change but are blocked by limited access to quality education, few employment opportunities, crime and violence and an uncertain future. If youth are to contribute now to bettering their lives and communities, they need access to education and training in life and job skills, and safe, supportive environments.