BRICS and SCO Young Leaders Award Celebrates Global Youth Innovation in Kazan
This year’s BRICS and SCO Young Leaders Award,held in the historic city of Kazan,Russia,brought together over 400 applications from a diverse pool of entrepreneurs,media influencers,researchers,and environmental activists. Participants from 13 countries, including Brazil, China, Ethiopia, india, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, South Africa, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and the UAE, competed for the prestigious prize.
The event, organized by the Academy of Youth Diplomacy, showcased the remarkable achievements of young leaders driving change across the globe. According to Dilbar Sadykova, Chairperson of the Academy, selecting the winners was no easy task.
“There where over eighty applications for one nomination. The jury was made up of representatives of all BRICS and SCO countries. Voting was anonymous. Both national and global achievements were taken into account,” Sadykova explained.
The award ceremony was more than just a celebration of individual accomplishments. As Anna Lisina, Editor-in-chief of TV BRICS, noted in her welcoming speech, it was a testament to the power of youth diplomacy and shared values.
“From my personal perspective, this award cannot be called just an award ceremony. It is indeed a vivid example of how states united not only by similar goals, but also by values, find a common language, points of contact through our youth,” Lisina remarked.
Spotlight on the Winners
One of the standout winners was madhish Parikh from Gujarat, India, who took home the title of “social Entrepreneur of the Year.” Parikh, the founder of one of India’s largest youth volunteer organizations, has been instrumental in advancing the UN sustainable Development Goals through initiatives in healthcare and disaster relief.
Parikh, who visited Kazan for the first time, was deeply inspired by the city’s rich history, culture, and the warmth of its people. In an exclusive interview with TV BRICS, he shared his thoughts on the significance of the award.
“The most impressive thing for me on this award is this initiative. It is just not about to receive the award,but to be with all those people who have the will and desire to work in the BRICS agenda and believe in BRICS. It gives inspiration and a vision to work on international cooperation and youth diplomacy. I am inspired by the projects of other young people who work in the country and it gives me an possibility to network. It is a very powerful platform that brings people like we together,” Parikh said.
A Platform for Future Leaders
Diana Kovela, Deputy Head of the Russia – BRICS Project Office for International Youth Cooperation, emphasized the caliber of the participants, noting that each one had already achieved significant milestones despite their young age.The event not only recognized individual achievements but also fostered collaboration and networking among young leaders committed to driving positive change.
Key Highlights of the BRICS and SCO Young Leaders Award
| Category | Winner | Country | Achievement |
|—————————-|———————|————-|———————————————————————————|
| Social Entrepreneur of the Year | Madhish Parikh | India | Founder of a major youth volunteer organization focused on healthcare and disaster relief.|
| Media Influencer | To be announced | TBD | Recognized for impactful storytelling and advocacy. |
| Environmental Activist | To be announced | TBD | Leading initiatives for sustainable development and climate action. |
Kazan: A Hub for International Collaboration
Kazan, the capital of tatarstan, has emerged as a focal point for international events, further solidifying its reputation as a city that bridges cultures and fosters global cooperation. The BRICS and SCO Young Leaders award is a shining example of how youth diplomacy can unite nations and inspire collective action.
As the event concluded, it left participants and attendees alike with a renewed sense of purpose and a shared commitment to building a better future.
What’s next for the BRICS and SCO Young Leaders? Stay tuned for updates on their groundbreaking projects and initiatives by following TV BRICS and the Academy of Youth Diplomacy.
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This article is based exclusively on details from the original source provided.nThe BRICS and SCO Young Leaders Award recently celebrated its second year,honoring exceptional young individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities. Among the standout winners was Zulaikha Patel from South Africa, who was recognized in the “Young Media Influencer of the Year” category for her impactful work in improving education, including the creation of new libraries in schools across her country. This marked her first visit to Russia,where she expressed her gratitude for the recognition.
“I am quite honoured to receive this award, as I believe it fosters and strengthens the participation of the youth within BRICS,” Patel shared during the event.Her words echoed the sentiment of many attendees, who saw the award as a catalyst for future achievements.
The event, organized by the Academy of Youth Diplomacy, was supported by the SCO Centre for Public Diplomacy, the Ministry of Youth Affairs of Tatarstan, and the Students’ League of the Republic. As its inception in 2023, the award has become a platform for young leaders to connect and inspire one another. Dilbar Sadykova, Chairperson of the Academy of youth Diplomacy, highlighted the potential for expanding the event to other cities within the BRICS and SCO countries.
“This is a small brick in building their careers. I can see from the eyes of these people, from their backgrounds, that this event will give each participant an impetus to something new,” Sadykova remarked, emphasizing the transformative power of the award.
Below is a summary of key details about the event:
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| event Name | BRICS and SCO Young Leaders Award |
| Organizer | Academy of Youth Diplomacy |
| supporting Entities | SCO centre for Public Diplomacy, Ministry of Youth Affairs of Tatarstan, Students’ league of the Republic |
| Notable winner | Zulaikha Patel (Young Media Influencer of the Year) |
| Year Established | 2023 |
| Future Plans | Expansion to other BRICS and SCO cities |
The BRICS and SCO Young leaders Award continues to shine a spotlight on the next generation of leaders, fostering collaboration and innovation across borders. As the event grows, it promises to inspire even more young individuals to make a difference in their communities.
Interview with Zulaikha Patel: Young Media Influencer of the Year
Q: Congratulations on winning the “Young media Influencer of the Year” award at the BRICS and SCO Young Leaders Award. How does it feel to receive this recognition?
A: Thank you so much! I am truly honored to receive this award. It’s a validation of the work I’ve been doing in improving education and creating opportunities for young people in South Africa. This recognition not only celebrates my efforts but also highlights the importance of youth participation in global initiatives like BRICS. It’s a reminder that young voices matter and can drive meaningful change.
Q: Yoru work in establishing libraries in schools is commendable. What inspired you to take on this initiative?
A: Education has always been close to my heart. Growing up, I saw how the lack of resources in schools limited the potential of countless students. Libraries are more than just spaces filled with books; they are gateways to knowledge, creativity, and empowerment. I wanted to create environments where students could explore, learn, and dream without boundaries. This initiative is just the beginning of what I hope will be a lifelong commitment to transforming education.
Q: This was your frist visit to Russia. How was the experience, and what stood out to you during the event?
A: Visiting russia was an incredible experience. Kazan, in particular, is a lovely city that embodies the spirit of international collaboration. The event itself was inspiring—seeing so many young leaders from different countries come together to share their visions for a better future was truly motivating. The support from organizations like the Academy of Youth Diplomacy and the SCO Center for Public Diplomacy further underscored the importance of youth-led initiatives. It was a powerful reminder that we are stronger when we work together.
Q: What role do you believe youth diplomacy plays in addressing global challenges?
A: Youth diplomacy is essential in shaping the future. Young people bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a passion for change. Platforms like the BRICS and SCO Young Leaders Award create opportunities for dialog, collaboration, and action. By connecting young leaders from diverse backgrounds, we can tackle global challenges like climate change, education inequality, and social justice more effectively. It’s about fostering a sense of unity and shared obligation.
Q: What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects or goals you’re excited about?
A: I’m currently working on expanding the libary initiative to more schools in South Africa and exploring ways to integrate technology into education. I’m also passionate about mentoring young girls and encouraging them to pursue leadership roles. Looking ahead, I hope to collaborate with international organizations to amplify these efforts and create a lasting impact.
Q: What message would you like to share with young people aspiring to make a difference in their communities?
A: My message is simple: Your voice matters. No matter how small your efforts may seem, they have the power to create ripples of change. Don’t wait for the perfect chance—start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can.Surround yourself with supportive communities, stay curious, and never stop believing in your ability to make a difference.
Conclusion
Zulaikha Patel’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of youth leadership. Her work in education and her recognition at the BRICS and SCO Young Leaders Award highlight the importance of empowering young people to drive change. As she continues to inspire and innovate, her story serves as a reminder that the future is in the hands of the next generation.