MEET YOUNG LEADERS FROM ACROSS THE WORLD TRANSFORMING POLITICS AND POLICY IN THEIR COUNTRIES AND ACROSS THE GLOBE.
These exceptional young leaders are a testament to the transformative power of youth in shaping the future of politics and governance. With their passion, vision, and commitment, they are paving the way for impactful change in their communities and beyond. Through this global list, we celebrate their achievements and look forward to the mark they will leave on their countries and the world as they continue to drive progress and innovation in leadership.
UNDER30
Every year on National Youth Day, celebrated on the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda ji, we honor his vision of empowering young people to shape the world. This year, inspired by his ideals and recognizing the power of youth leadership worldwide, we decided to expand our annual Under 30 list beyond India to include extraordinary young leaders from across the globe.
By going global, we aim to shine a light on the shared challenges young leaders face—whether advocating for climate action, social justice, or economic reform—and the solutions they bring to the table. From the youngest members of national legislatures to dynamic changemakers leading grassroots initiatives, this list is a tribute to their resilience, vision, and determination.
As we celebrate these remarkable individuals on National Youth Day, we honor the global spirit of youth leadership that transcends borders. We hope their stories inspire a generation of young people, from India and beyond, to rise to the challenge of shaping a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable world.
By the numbers
1.2 Billion +
YOUNG People
between 15-24 Making up
16% of the world’s population.
By the numbers
4 Billion +
50% of the world’s population
is below 30, yet only
2% of parliamentarism are below 30
Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke (22, New Zealand) is a trailblazing Member of the New Zealand Parliament representing Te Pāti Māori. At just 22, she has become a powerful voice for Indigenous rights and governance, exemplifying her deep commitment to the representation of Māori communities.
Maipi-Clarke gained international recognition in 2024 by leading protests against the Treaty Principles Bill, a proposed amendment that sought to redefine the foundational provisions of the treaty between the Māori people and the Monarchy of New Zealand. In a bold act of defiance, she tore a copy of the bill on the parliamentary floor, symbolizing her unwavering opposition to legislation she believed undermined the rights and sovereignty of the Māori people.
Maipi-Clarke’s leadership embodies courage and advocacy for Indigenous rights, making her a prominent figure in New Zealand politics and a beacon of hope for young leaders across the globe
Sam Carling (22, United Kingdom) holds the title of Baby of the House as the youngest Member of the British Parliament. Representing the Labour Party, he serves as the MP for North West Cambridgeshire, where he advocates for progressive policies and the interests of his diverse constituency.
Carling’s political journey began during his undergraduate years when he was elected to the Cambridge City Council, representing the West Chesterton ward. His role as a councillor demonstrated his dedication to local governance and community issues, where he gained a reputation for his pragmatic approach to addressing housing, public transport, and youth engagement challenges. Balancing his education with public service, he showed remarkable commitment to effecting change. As Baby of the House, Carling brings fresh perspectives to British politics and continues to inspire a new generation of leaders to actively participate in public service.
Karoline Leavitt (27, United States of America, Female) is set to become the youngest Press Secretary in White House history, following the inauguration of Donald Trump in 2025. A rising star in American politics and communications, Leavitt has been a key figure in shaping Trump’s 2024 Presidential Election Campaign. Her role as a writer and strategist has been instrumental in crafting the campaign’s messaging and outreach efforts.
As Press Secretary, Leavitt is expected to bring a fresh and dynamic approach to the role, combining sharp communication skills with a deep understanding of modern political discourse. Her historic appointment highlights the growing influence of young leaders in shaping national narratives and governance.
Jorge Pueyo (29, Spain, Male) is a Member of the Congress of Deputies and serves as the Deputy Speaker of the Plurinational Parliamentary Group Sumar in the Congress of Deputies in Spain. A passionate advocate for linguistic diversity, Pueyo has worked extensively to promote the Aragonese language. He launched a YouTube project dedicated to disseminating Aragonese, which gained significant traction and evolved into a regular newscast presented in the language every Monday through Thursday. Through his initiatives, Pueyo has successfully brought attention to the preservation and revitalization of Aragonese while highlighting its cultural significance on a national platform.
Fidias Panayiotou (24, Cyprus, Male) is a Member of the European Parliament representing Cyprus. Known for his innovative approach to politics, Fidias gained prominence as a YouTuber and TikToker before entering public office. His engaging content included interviews with 12 of the 14 candidates running for the Cypriot Presidency in 2023, demonstrating his commitment to political transparency and accessibility. In July 2024, he assumed office in the European Parliament as an Independent. Fidias has uniquely integrated his social media platforms into his political strategy, delegating some of his affiliations and decision-making authority to his fans and followers, fostering a new level of participatory democracy.
Takudzwa Ngadziore (27, Harare) is the youngest member of Zimbabwe’s National Assembly, elected through the youth quota system. A vocal advocate for youth rights and political reform, Ngadziore gained prominence as a leader in the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU). His activism led to his arrest and imprisonment twice, in 2020 and 2021, for participating in protests against systemic issues in the country. Now serving in Parliament, Ngadziore continues to champion the rights of young people and works toward creating a more equitable and just society in Zimbabwe.
Jeta Statovci (29, Kosovo, Female) is a Member of the Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo, representing the Lëvizja VETËVENDOSJE! (Self-Determination Movement) party. Elected in 2021, she has emerged as a significant voice in policymaking, particularly in health economics and governance. Statovci holds a Master’s degree in Health Economics and Policy from the London School of Economics (LSE), where she was a Chevening Scholar, and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Management from RIT Kosovo.
Before her parliamentary role, she served as a health and social policy advisor to the Speaker of the Assembly and Acting President, Vjosa Osmani. Additionally, she has been a health economics consultant for Kosovo’s Ministry of Health and Deputy Rector for Research and Quality at a private university.
In the Assembly, Statovci serves on the Budget, Labor, and Transfers Committee and the Economy, Industry, Entrepreneurship, and Trade Committee. She has been at the forefront of efforts to drive economic recovery in Kosovo and strengthen global engagement. Her work extends to international platforms, and in 2023, she was selected by the World Bank to represent Europe and Central Asia in the Global Young MP Initiative (2023–2025), joining eight other global parliamentarians to address developmental challenges.
Statovci also leads the Pristina branch of the Guxo Party, where she works to bridge local governance with national and international priorities. With her expertise in health economics and dedication to youth-led governance, she continues to shape innovative policies for Kosovo’s growth and development.
Romina Pourmokhtari (29, Sweden, Female) is Sweden’s Minister for the Environment, representing the Liberal Youth of Sweden and the Liberals. At just 29, she is one of the youngest leaders to hold such a critical position, exemplifying the power of youth in driving progressive change. As the child of political refugees, Pourmokhtari brings a deeply personal perspective to her work, championing the rights of asylum seekers and advocating for marginalized communities.
Her leadership is defined by her commitment to protecting fundamental rights and freedoms, including those of the LGBTQ+ community, women, and cultural and media institutions. In her role as Minister for the Environment, Pourmokhtari has been a staunch advocate for climate justice, consistently pushing the Swedish government to adopt comprehensive policy recommendations from the Conference of Parties (COP). She has also championed the importance of the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on climate finance, urging the international community to commit to equitable and ambitious financial mechanisms for addressing the global climate crisis.
Pourmokhtari’s dynamic and inclusive approach to governance makes her a leading voice in Swedish politics, inspiring young leaders worldwide to envision and build a more just, sustainable, and equitable future.
Anderson Clayton (26, United States of America,) is the youngest state party leader in the history of the United States, serving as the Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party. A trailblazer in political leadership, she won her position in 2023, defeating long-standing party figures, which underscored her vision for energizing the Democratic base with a focus on grassroots organizing and youth engagement.
Clayton’s leadership has been pivotal in mobilizing rural and suburban voters, demographics often overlooked in state and national campaigns. She has prioritized building robust county-level party organizations and empowering local leaders, ensuring the Democratic Party maintains a presence in all corners of North Carolina. Her tenure has been marked by a commitment to modernizing voter outreach strategies, integrating digital tools, and emphasizing the role of young voters in shaping the political future.
Her efforts have already shown significant results, with increased voter registration drives and targeted campaigns that have boosted Democratic engagement in traditionally Republican-leaning areas. Clayton’s leadership style, characterized by inclusivity and innovation, has drawn national attention, positioning her as a rising star in American politics and a key figure in shaping the Democratic Party’s strategy for the South.
Takashima Ryosuke (27, Japan, Male) is the youngest Mayor of Ashiya, a city in Western Japan, breaking through a political landscape often dominated by geriatric leadership in a country with one of the world’s fastest-aging populations. Japan’s demographic challenges, including a shrinking youth population and aging leadership, have often left younger generations underrepresented in policymaking. Takashima’s election marks a pivotal shift toward more inclusive governance and reflects a growing demand for fresh, innovative perspectives in Japanese politics.
A Harvard graduate in 2022, Takashima has championed initiatives to modernize Ashiya and make it more inclusive and appealing to younger residents while addressing the needs of its aging population. Beyond his mayoral responsibilities, he founded the Ryugaku Fellowship, a nonprofit organization that equips Japanese high school students with the resources and mentorship needed to study abroad. This initiative not only fosters global perspectives among Japan’s youth but also seeks to counteract the country’s inward-looking tendencies by encouraging international engagement and leadership.
Takashima’s leadership symbolizes a broader movement toward empowering youth in a system historically led by older generations. By bridging the generational gap, he is tackling the dual challenges of Japan’s aging demographic and the need for policies that resonate with younger citizens, ensuring a more dynamic and forward-thinking approach to governance.
Eve Borg Bonello (21, Malta) holds the distinction of being the youngest sitting member in a national legislature globally and is the youngest person ever elected to the Maltese House of Representatives. Representing the Nationalist Party of Malta, she is a rising star in her country’s political landscape.
Bonello’s political journey gained national attention due to her outspoken opposition to former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. Her efforts galvanized public sentiment against him, contributing to the significant public backlash that ultimately led to his resignation. Her advocacy and leadership at such a young age demonstrate her remarkable commitment to accountability and transparency in governance. As a member of the Maltese House of Representatives, Bonello has focused on issues impacting youth and national reform, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to Maltese politics. Her work underscores her dedication to fostering a more inclusive and transparent political system for future generations.
Emma Roddick (27, Scotland) is a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) and former Minister for Equalities, Migration, and Refuges from March 2023 to May 2024, where she championed policies to support underrepresented communities. Drawing from her personal experience of homelessness as a teenager, Roddick has been vocal about the financial struggles faced by public officials, highlighting the need for better support systems. She played a key role in improving NHS24 services, spearheading a campaign that led to the successful introduction of Option 3 to their out-of-hours helpline in 2020, enhancing accessibility for those in need.
Hellen Auma Wandera (27, Uganda, Female) is a Member of Uganda’s 11th Parliament, serving as the Women’s Representative for Busia District under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party. Wandera is a member of the Committee on Presidential Affairs, where she contributes to overseeing executive matters. Known for her advocacy for women and youth empowerment, Wandera focuses on policies that enhance education, entrepreneurship, and access to public services. As Uganda’s youngest legislator, she represents a shift towards youth leadership in governance, driving initiatives that prioritize gender equality and grassroots development.
Wiebke Winter (28, Germany, Female) is the youngest member of the national board of the Christlich Demokratische Union (CDU) and a Member of the Bremen Parliament. A rising star in German politics, she represents a new generation of leadership within one of Germany’s most influential political parties.
Winter has been actively involved in shaping policies that reflect the priorities of younger generations, focusing on sustainable development, innovation, and youth engagement. As a member of the CDU national board, she brings a fresh perspective to the party’s strategic direction and decision-making processes. In the Bremen Parliament, Winter works to address local and national issues, advocating for policies that support economic growth, social cohesion, and environmental responsibility.
Her leadership demonstrates a commitment to bridging generational divides in policymaking and fostering a more inclusive and forward-looking political environment in Germany.
Fatima Payman (29, Australia, Female) is an Australian Senator born in Kabul, Afghanistan, representing Western Australia. Initially serving as a member of the Labour Party, she later became an independent senator before founding her own party, Australia’s Voice, in October 2024. Her decision to leave the Labour Party stemmed from her strong stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, during which she delivered a widely recognized and impassioned speech condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza and critiquing the Australian government’s inadequate response.
In addition to her advocacy on international human rights, Senator Payman gained significant attention for her innovative approach to engaging younger audiences. In a viral parliamentary speech, she creatively used Gen Z and Gen Alpha slang to connect with young Australians, making parliamentary discussions more accessible and relatable. The speech showcased her ability to balance serious policy debates with cultural relevance, further solidifying her reputation as a trailblazing and dynamic political leader.
Through her work, Senator Payman continues to champion inclusive policies, youth engagement, and the need for Australia’s voice to reflect both its diversity and its commitment to global justice.
Jordan Bardella (29, France, Male) is the leader of the National Rally (RN) and a Member of the European Parliament. As the youngest leader of the party, Bardella has been a prominent figure in shaping its political agenda and representing it at the European level. He previously served as the Prime Minister’s candidate, highlighting his significant role in French and European politics. Bardella’s leadership underscores the increasing presence of youth in high-ranking political positions.
By the numbers
Young people are the largest
voting demographic in every
single democracy.
By the numbers
32%
Young people play
a substantial role in the global economy,
yet have an unprecedent 15% unemployment rate
Kerryne James (27, Grenada, Female) is the Minister of Climate Resilience, Environment, and Renewable Energy in Grenada’s Cabinet and a Member of Parliament for the National Democratic Congress. She made history in 2022 as the country’s youngest legislator.
As Minister, Hon. James has been a strong advocate for youth-centric climate policies, ensuring that young voices and needs are central to Grenada’s climate strategies. Her leadership prioritizes integrating youth perspectives into climate processes and fostering policies that empower the next generation to actively contribute to climate resilience and renewable energy initiatives.
In her role, she has also focused on building partnerships and engaging communities to strengthen Grenada’s position as a leader in sustainable development. Kerryne James exemplifies how young leaders can redefine governance, bringing fresh ideas and urgency to address pressing environmental challenges.
Jennifer Pedraza (28, Colombia, Female) is a trailblazing member of the House of Representatives in Colombia, representing a new generation of political leaders. She played a pivotal role in co-authoring the groundbreaking legislation that led to the 2024 ban on child marriages in Colombia. This historic achievement marked a significant step forward in protecting children’s rights and promoting gender equality across the nation. (
Pedraza has also been a staunch advocate for education reform, labor rights, and social justice, leveraging her platform to address systemic inequalities and champion the welfare of marginalized communities. Her dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable Colombia has made her a prominent voice in the country’s political landscape. As a young leader, Pedraza continues to inspire and drive progressive change in Colombia.
Amira Aisya Abdul Aziz (29, Malaysia, Female) is the dynamic acting president of the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (MUDA), a youth-centric political party dedicated to fostering progressive policies and empowering young voices in Malaysia. As a Member of the Legislative Assembly in Johor State, she actively champions initiatives that prioritize youth participation, education reform, and social justice.
Under her leadership, MUDA has gained prominence as a platform for young Malaysians to engage in politics and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society. Amira’s work reflects her commitment to bridging generational divides and addressing pressing issues such as economic development, access to education, and environmental sustainability.
Her role as both a party leader and legislator underscores her dedication to reshaping Malaysia’s political landscape, ensuring that young leaders and fresh perspectives play a critical role in the nation’s future.
Jasmine Shanon Petersen (22, South Africa) is a Member of Parliament representing the Patriotic Alliance, where she serves as a whip for her party. At just 22 years old, she is one of the youngest MPs in South Africa, showcasing her dedication to public service and the empowerment of underrepresented voices in politics.
Petersen is an active member of the Youth Committee, where she advocates for policies aimed at improving education, employment, and opportunities for young South Africans. She is also a key participant in the Committee for Women, focusing on gender equality, combating gender-based violence, and enhancing the representation of women in leadership roles. Her political career is marked by her commitment to amplifying youth and women’s voices in South Africa’s legislative process, positioning her as a promising figure in the nation’s political landscape.
Aida Birinxhiku (25, Sweden, Female) is a Member of the Riksdag representing the Social Democrats Party. Elected in 2022, she represents Halland County and holds the distinction of being the youngest Member of the Swedish Parliament following the 2022 elections. Birinxhiku is a strong advocate for youth representation and works toward policies that ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for young people in Sweden. Her election symbolizes a shift toward empowering younger voices in national decision-making.
Eric Melillo (26, Canada, Male) is a Member of the Canadian Parliament representing the Conservative Party, a role he has held since 2019. At the time of his election, he was the youngest MP in Canadian history. Melillo initially served as the Deputy Shadow Minister for Diversity and Inclusion and Youth and the Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario. His parliamentary contributions extended to serving on the Standing Committees for Natural Resources and Indigenous and Northern Affairs. Melillo is dedicated to addressing key issues such as economic development, natural resource management, and inclusivity for Northern and Indigenous communities in Canada.
Maxwell Alejandro Frost (27, United States of America, Male)is the first Gen-Z member elected to the United States Congress, representing Florida’s 10th District. As a trailblazer in American politics, Frost has brought a fresh perspective to Capitol Hill, addressing issues that resonate deeply with younger generations.
Currently serving his second term, Frost has been a strong advocate for progressive and impactful policies. He has championed efforts for comprehensive drug control reforms, including the decriminalization of cannabis and the regulation of sex work, aiming to reduce harm and promote social equity. He has also taken a balanced approach to foreign policy by supporting a two-state solution in the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and human rights.
Frost’s leadership reflects his commitment to addressing pressing social issues with innovative and inclusive solutions, solidifying his role as a voice for young Americans in Congress.
Rümeysa Kadak (28, Turkey) is a Member of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, representing Istanbul for the Justice and Development Party (AK Party). Elected in 2018 as the youngest-ever MP in Turkey’s history, Kadak has been a vocal advocate for youth empowerment, education reform, and women’s participation in politics. As a member of the Parliamentary Committee on National Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports, she has spearheaded initiatives to enhance educational opportunities and youth engagement in governance. Kadak is also recognized for her efforts to bridge the gap between traditional political structures and younger generations in Turkey.
Jordan Bardella (29, France, Male) is the leader of the National Rally (RN) and a Member of the European Parliament. As the youngest leader of the party, Bardella has been a prominent figure in shaping its political agenda and representing it at the European level. He previously served as the Prime Minister’s candidate, highlighting his significant role in French and European politics. Bardella’s leadership underscores the increasing presence of youth in high-ranking political positions.
Kira Peter-Hansen (25, Denmark) is a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) representing Denmark as part of The Greens/European Free Alliance. Elected in 2019 at the age of 21, she became the youngest-ever MEP in European history. As a vice-chair of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs, Peter-Hansen advocates for workers’ rights, social justice, and green economic reforms. She is also a strong proponent of gender equality, youth participation in politics, and sustainable climate policies. Her leadership within the Greens/EFA group has positioned her as a prominent voice for progressive change in Europe.
Emilia Fester (26, Germany) is a member of the German Bundestag, representing the Alliance 90/The Greens Party. As the spokesperson for her parliamentary group on youth issues, she plays a pivotal role in advocating for policies that prioritize the interests and needs of young people across Germany.
Fester made history as the youngest member of the Bundestag when she was elected, a title she held until January 2023. Her journey into politics is marked by her passionate commitment to climate action, youth empowerment, and social justice. Within her party, she has been a leading voice for initiatives aimed at addressing climate change, improving educational opportunities, and ensuring that the younger generation’s perspectives are heard in legislative processes.
Her advocacy extends to strengthening youth participation in democratic decision-making and pushing for policies that tackle the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Emilia Fester remains an inspiring figure in German politics, embodying the progressive ideals of her party while championing the causes of her generation.
Jaime Cojuangco (27, Philippines) is a Member of the House of Representatives of the Philippines, serving since 2022. Representing the National People’s Coalition, Cojuangco has been a dynamic presence in the country’s legislature. He is gearing up for the 37th Parliamentary Election in 2025 and aims to strengthen his advocacy for his constituents in Tarlac’s Congressional District. As the first candidate running in this newly delineated district, Cojuangco is focused on addressing local needs while championing progressive policies at the national level.
Abdoulie Njai (28, The Gambia, Male) is the youngest Member of Parliament in The Gambia, having successfully run and won as an independent candidate. Njai has been instrumental in championing legislative reforms, including working on the Anti-Corruption Bill to promote transparency and accountability. He has also advocated for bills supporting women entrepreneurs, aiming to empower economic participation, and young athletes, focusing on fostering opportunities for youth in sports and development. Njai’s leadership reflects a strong commitment to addressing corruption and advancing youth and women’s rights in The Gambia.
Emma Theofelus (28, Namibia, Female) serves as Namibia’s Deputy Minister of Information, Communication, and Technology, where she is a trailblazer in engaging the country’s youth and advancing progressive policies. Recognized as one of the 100 most influential African Women, she has made significant strides in addressing youth and gender issues in Namibia. One of her landmark achievements is successfully advocating for the removal of taxation on sanitary napkins, making menstrual products more accessible and reducing period poverty. She is also a dedicated advocate for sexual and reproductive health rights, ensuring these critical issues remain a priority in government discussions. Her innovative and youth-friendly approach to governance has earned her the prestigious UN Population Award, highlighting her ability to connect with and inspire Namibia’s younger generations. Emma Theofelus is a shining example of how young leaders can bring dynamic, impactful change to national and global conversations.
