The fact that so many around the world suffer from easily preventable illnesses and that so many governments have control over individuals’ personal sexual rights outrages me. I applied to be a part of the International Youth Leadership Council because I wanted to do something about it.

Laurel is a college junior and a member of the International Youth Leadership Council.

Having lived in 4 different countries and traveled to many others, I have seen firsthand how different cultures, attitudes and laws can affect sexual health and rights and thus people’s lives to the deepest level. As an International Health major at Georgetown University, I learn a lot about sexual health and rights. The fact that so many around the world suffer from easily preventable illnesses and that so many governments have control over individuals’ personal sexual rights outrages me. I applied to be a part of the International Youth Leadership Council because I wanted to do something about it.

Maybe it can be said that ignorance above all is the most dangerous to one’s health and rights. Knowledge is protective and empowering. Young people everywhere need to know about these issues—they need to have the facts to be able to fight for their own rights and to truly understand how important their sexual health and rights are.

I am motivated because I know how much sexual health and rights can affect a single person, a family or a community. It is an essential issue that cannot be ignored. Furthermore, knowledge is so powerful and easily transferred from one to another. By reach one person I may be able to reach dozens more, and so the effect continues. I hope that one day all people, especially the young, are armed with the information needed to save their lives, reach their full potential and to fight for their own rights.