In order for youth to reach their full potential they must have freedom to make their own reproductive and sexual choices. I will continue to inform my peers of the important issues so we can unite together and take action using the most important tool: knowledge.

Makda is a member of the International Youth Leadership Council.

My passion for fighting for the rights of youth has led me to join the International Youth Leadership Council in Advocates for Youth. In order to protect the health and rights of youth, especially those who are marginalized, Advocates for Youth works to inform youth of their own rights as well as mobilize individuals to lobby Congress and other political entities in order to pass laws that benefit youth or dismiss laws that harm them. At its core, Advocates for Youth works to provide comprehensive unbiased sexual health education to youth in order to help them make informed decisions. I joined the IYLC because I want to contribute to the revolutionary work that they continue to do.

The work that Advocates for Youth does is very important to youth worldwide. As an IYLC member, I work to stand up for the voice of youth everywhere. I feel compelled to fight for the rights and health of youth because as a fellow youth, I understand the issues that are impacting us. In order for youth to reach their full potential they must have freedom to make their own reproductive and sexual choices. I will continue to inform my peers of the important issues so we can unite together and take action using the most important tool: knowledge. As an IYLC member, I am committed to effecting positive change in the lives of young people.