About WYI
A New Generation
Shaping Global Policy
The World Youth Initiative is a youth-led international think tank dedicated to elevating the voices of the next generation in global policy discourse — through rigorous research, cross-border collaboration, and principled advocacy.
Our Mission
Research-Driven.
Youth-Powered.
Globally Minded.
The World Youth Initiative exists to bridge the gap between young people and global governance. We believe that the most pressing challenges of our time — climate change, democratic erosion, economic inequality, and technological disruption — require fresh thinking from those who will live longest with their consequences.
Through policy research, fellowships, and institutional partnerships, WYI trains and deploys a new generation of evidence-based policymakers across every region of the world.
Our Values
Rigorous Research
We produce policy-relevant analysis grounded in evidence, methodological rigor, and intellectual honesty — holding ourselves to the standards of the world's leading think tanks.
Global Perspective
Our research teams span every continent. We design for diversity of perspective as a first principle, not an afterthought — because global problems demand global insight.
Youth Leadership
Every role at WYI — from researcher to council lead — is held by someone under 30. Youth leadership is not our brand; it is our operating principle.
Policy Impact
Ideas without impact are just ideas. We measure success by whether our work reaches decision-makers and shifts conversations in multilateral forums, governments, and civil society.
Integrity
We are non-partisan and independent. Our analysis serves no government, ideology, or donor agenda — only the long-term interests of a sustainable, just, and open world.
Openness
Our publications are freely accessible. We partner openly with academia, civil society, and institutions that share our commitment to evidence-based policymaking.
Leadership
A Message From
Our Founders
The World Youth Initiative was built on a simple conviction: that young people are not just the future of global policy — they are already its most urgent constituency. We created WYI to give that conviction institutional form.
Co-Founder
Marc Nestele
I'm Marc, 18, and grew up near Munich. I'm finishing school this year, where I also serve as school president, and heading to the United States for university. My interests sit at the intersection of mathematics, economics, and politics, and I've always been drawn to understanding how systems work and, more importantly, how they can be changed.
Amira and I didn't start the World Youth Initiative with a grand blueprint. We started because we kept noticing the same absence: young people consistently left out of conversations that will define their futures. Not for lack of ideas, but for lack of a platform that takes those ideas seriously. WYI is our answer to that.
Co-Founder
Amira Benkredda
I’m Amira, 17, and live near Munich. Being trilingual and growing up with a multicultural background has always given me a global perspective on how the world connects.
I’m deeply passionate about business, politics, and the Arab world, with a huge focus on feminism and social justice. For me, the World Youth Initiative is about making sure our generation doesn't just sit at the kids' table, but actually stands up for the issues that matter.
When I’m not working on policy briefs, you’ll probably find me singing, horseback riding, or traveling. I love being social and taking action where it’s needed. We’re here to turn our ideas into real impact - and that’s what I’m most excited about.
Our Story
How WYI Came to Be
From a shared conviction to a global institution — the story of WYI is the story of a generation that refused to wait for a seat at the table.
2025
The Founding Idea
WYI is conceived by its founders after observing a persistent gap in global governance: young people are the most affected by long-term policy decisions yet systematically excluded from making them. A framework for a youth-led think tank is drafted.
Early 2026
Institutional Launch
The World Youth Initiative is formally established. The first cohort of national research teams is recruited across six continents, with researchers selected for academic excellence and policy ambition.
2026 — Present
Research & Growth
WYI publishes its inaugural policy briefs, launches its fellowship programme, and begins building institutional partnerships with universities, NGOs, and intergovernmental bodies. The journey is only beginning.
Global Reach
Network Coming SoonRepresented Across Every Continent
WYI's national research teams operate across the globe, bringing local expertise and regional context to questions of international significance. Our network spans every major geopolitical region.
Be Part of What's Next
Whether you're a researcher, advocate, or institution — there is a place for you at WYI.
Research portal opening soon