We always strive to support young people from diverse backgrounds in navigating changes and overcoming adversity by drawing on their strengths, resilience and potential. Our beliefs are reflected in the work that we do, and in our partners. Established in 2010, BEAM Education Foundation (BEAM) has been our strategic partner since 2015. BEAM works to empower Myanmar migrants and underprivileged ethnic young people in Thailand through youth participation and educational programmes.

As part of BEAM’s Youth Community Engagement Programme, the 7th annual youth conference was held from 3 – 5 February, bringing together migrant youth, Thai and Thai ethnic youth in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This year’s conference theme was ‘Defying Gravity’, aiming to inspire sustainable social entrepreneurship and promote youth engagement.

Over the course of three days, participants attended a series of workshops on anti-hate speech, design thinking, problem solving, and social and emotional learning, to foster self-discovery and crucial life skills. The conference also provided a platform for young people to voice their opinions and come up with solutions for challenges faced by their communities. They worked in teams to address social issues and develop implementation plans to solve problems. Since its inception, the youth conference has attracted 446 participants with 16 community impact projects chosen for funding and mentorship opportunities.

Child’s Dream is delighted to facilitate such impactful youth capacity building and development initiatives in partnership with BEAM, and remains committed to working towards our shared goal of empowering the lives of marginalised communities.