Reflections on the Global Youth Experience Summit
Last week, I represented the 3CL and Malta, in the Global Youth Experience (GYE), a youth summit that forms part of Dr Gary Pluim’s participatory action research. This research explores cultural differences between nations and their potential impact on the development of a global curriculum. In an interview with Orillia Matters, Dr Pluim remarked that it was evident to him that culture matters—a sentiment that became increasingly clear throughout the summit.
While cultural distinctions were apparent, we also observed significant similarities among participants. Maltese delegates, for example, found common ground with attendees from the Bahamas and Fiji, particularly in discussions on the realities of life in small island states. Furthermore, the impact of the internet on globalisation was undeniable. Despite stark differences in traditions, when it came to modern topics—such as music preferences and contemporary societal challenges—there was substantial overlap. A memorable example of this shared cultural experience occurred on the first day when, en route to the Georgian Bay Friendship Centre, the entire group spontaneously began singing songs from The Lion King.
However, these similarities extended beyond surface-level topics to critical global issues that demand international cooperation. Climate change was a recurring theme, but so too were topics central to the 3CL’s mission, including education reform and information disorders. The cross-cultural discussions highlighted the need for collective efforts in addressing these pressing concerns.
An Indigenous man explains how life has changed for his community over the years.
Visiting Indigenous Communities
A particularly eye-opening experience was visiting the Georgian Bay Friendship Centre and the Rama First Nation Reserve. This visit provided insight into the essential outreach work being done with Indigenous communities who continue to face systemic challenges after generations of marginalisation and poverty. The experience underscored the cultural diversity within Canada and served as a reminder to approach global discussions with caution and inclusivity. Notably, while summit participants came from well-educated backgrounds, the issues we discussed often disproportionately affect those with lower educational attainment—an underrepresented demographic in both the summit and global political discourse. This further reinforced the understanding that social issues are deeply interconnected, necessitating multifaceted interventions for meaningful change.
The summit featured an array of presentations from both keynote speakers and young changemakers, many of whom are leading inspiring initiatives. One particularly remarkable presentation was delivered by a young Afghan woman who runs an NGO advocating for women’s rights in Afghanistan.
3CL Presenting on Information Disorders
Presenting At The Global Youth Summit
I had the opportunity to present on Malta, covering both its visible cultural elements, such as its cuisine, and less tangible aspects, including the concept of amoral familism, which is prevalent in the Mediterranean region. Additionally, I delivered a presentation on the impact of information disorders, using a storytelling framework to illustrate how media gatekeepers have evolved over time. While the internet was once hailed as a self-regulating force for democracy, the rise of misinformation and disinformation now poses a significant threat. Nevertheless, I emphasised that all hope is not lost. Through international collaboration, media literacy initiatives, and the implementation of both legal and technological safeguards—such as AI-driven solutions to demote misinformation—we can work towards a more resilient and innovative information ecosystem.
The summit’s cross-cultural environment provided a unique platform for participants to examine global issues through diverse perspectives. To synthesise these insights, we collaborated to produce a series of podcasts addressing key topics affecting young people worldwide.
Organised in partnership with the Ontario Council for International Cooperation (OCIC), the Commonwealth of Learning, and Lakehead University, the summit was made possible through the generous support of local residents. Their hospitality was invaluable, from providing essential winter gear to offering guidance, giving us tours of their town, and even welcoming us into their homes—gestures for which I am immensely grateful.
The Global Youth Experience was not just a summit but a powerful testament to the importance of cultural exchange, youth engagement, and collaborative problem-solving in shaping a better future for all. This experience provided invaluable insights for 3CL’s own research into intergenerational differences as it highlighted the value of having Gen Z involved in tackling budding global issues.
