Hope on the Horizon: Youth Leading Change Across Thailand

Dear Friends,

Amid a world increasingly shaped by authoritarianism, from Southeast Asia to our own communities here in the U.S., we remain grounded in a very important truth: the courage and creativity of young people can break through even the most entrenched systems of marginalization.

That truth came to life for our team a few weeks ago.

Partners Asia and a handful of our partners brought together nearly 30 stateless, indigenous, migrant, and fisherfolk youth from across Thailand. Most of them saw the ocean, or boarding a plane, for the very first time. They traveled to the Deep South to listen, share, and learn from each other and from local communities fighting for land, dignity, and the right to thrive. What unfolded was beyond what we could have hoped for: A week of solidarity, honesty, laughter, and connection across regions, cultures, and identities.

A young woman from Mae Sot reflected on meeting Moken children, saying: “Our homes are different, mine in the mountains, theirs by the sea, but our lives are the same. Stateless, kind, and trying to hold on to what makes us who we are.”

These youth didn’t just exchange stories. They began to map out a better future: one in which they lead, not follow; one in which they determine the questions, the strategies, and the goals. As one participant put it, “If you want to create a youth leader, you need to step back and truly allow us to grow in our own way.”

This is why we’re thrilled to share some exciting news: Partners Asia has just received a major new 2-year grant to support youth leadership and resilience. It is a powerful vote of confidence in our belief that young people, especially those navigating statelessness and displacement, hold the wisdom and drive to lead their communities forward.

We’re feeling humbled (yet again!) and we’re hopeful. We’re sticking right beside these incredible young leaders as they chart their own paths with infectious joy, grit, and heart!

Your belief in us makes this all possible and we’re deeply grateful.